Every day, we need food to help us grow and maintain our health. The nutrients and minerals that we absorb are what nurtures that health and vitality. This page is packed with a ton of rich, faith building resources to feed your soul. It is my prayer that you will grow in your walk with God and mature into the person He created you to be.
Pastor's note: Before you went on a trip ( especially somewhere you've never been) I'm sure you'd first check out Expedia or program your GPS. Our lives are uncharted territory. We are on a journey of unknowns yet God has given us a direction finder and some very real answers - His Word - Our GPS if you will.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at: [email protected]
I'm here for you and together we'll see if we can find life's answers that you're looking for.
Pastor's note: Before you went on a trip ( especially somewhere you've never been) I'm sure you'd first check out Expedia or program your GPS. Our lives are uncharted territory. We are on a journey of unknowns yet God has given us a direction finder and some very real answers - His Word - Our GPS if you will.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at: [email protected]
I'm here for you and together we'll see if we can find life's answers that you're looking for.
I became a Christian by Believing in Jesus as Savior Just Prayed This Simple Prayer
"Lord Jesus, I believe you are the Son of God. Thank you for dying on the cross for my sins. Please forgive my sins and give me the gift of eternal life. I ask you into my life and heart to be my Lord and Savior. I want to serve you always."
Did you pray this prayer? Let us know in “Submit your comments”
NOW, WHAT DO I DO?
If you prayed this prayer and meant it with all your heart, YOU ARE SAVED! You have now been born again, spiritually, and are a child of God. Your sins have been forgiven, and today begins the first day of many in your new walk with God.
If you are unsure? More information on how to become a Christian – just ask us.
We Are Glad You Decided To Give Your Life To Jesus Christ.
As a Christian What Should I do Next?
If you have received Jesus Christ as your Savior, as a Christian, you should:
1. Read your Bible every day to get to know Christ better.
The reason that this is important is that the Bible tells us what God wants us to do, it is God’s Word. As you begin to read it every day, it will cause you to grow spiritually. More information on understanding God's Word here and Bible Study Methods here.
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Psalms 119:105
2. Talk to God in prayer every day.
It’s important to pray and talk to God daily. He longs to hear from you and to fellowship with you. Prayer is a beautiful resource many Christians neglect to use, but it is a BIG part of having a relationship with God.
If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.
Matthew 21:22
Check out a Scriptural model Christian prayer here.
You don’t have to use eloquent speech and try and be someone your not with God. He knows your heart and wants you to talk to him like you would any dear friend, with reverence, of course. You can talk to God about anything, He is your heavenly father, and He wants to know you and have a relationship with you.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petiton, with thanksgiving, present your request to God.
Philippians 4:6.
3. As a new Christian be water baptized.
Baptism symbolizes your new life in Christ and proclaims that you are now committed to Jesus.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Matthew 28:19
Jesus was baptized. Luke 3:21-22. And He calls His followers also to be baptized. Baptism was practiced by the very first followers of Jesus. "Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day." Acts 2:41
Usually, the leaders of a local church perform the baptism. A local church pastor or church leader should be glad to speak with you about baptism if you express your interest. We get baptized because we are saved, not to be saved.
4. Worship, Fellowship, and build Friendships with other Christians.
In a church where Christ is preached.
The Christian life is designed to be enjoyed with others. Jesus invested much of His ministry with 12 disciples as His closest friends. He likewise calls us to live in a community with one another. If you would like more information about finding a loving local Church in your area feel free to contact us here.
"Not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching." " Hebrews 10:25
The New Testament has a lot “one another” verses that refer to loving one another, serving one another, encouraging one another, and praying for one another. Each of these commands requires relationships with other Christians.
5. Serve with Other Christians.
As you begin your new life as a Christian, you will find a new love inside you, giving you a desire to help others. The Holy Spirit will lead you in ways to help. You might serve the poor in your community, assist a neighbor with yard work, or visit a sick friend in the hospital.
"If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth."
(1 John 3:17-18).
6. Tell others about Christ.
Becoming a Christian is not a secret; it’s a celebration! Tell all who will listen about Christ’s work in your life. It’s up to us as Christians to share the Good News with others. Maybe you know someone close to you who doesn't know Christ, and you can lead that person to Christ. If you don’t know what to say, share what you know and what God has done for you. If they know, they are a sinner and need a Savior and they want to pray and ask forgiveness of their sins and trust Christ as their Savior then you can lead them in prayer or let them pray on their own, its straightforward Today, Christians are still called to share the hope within us with others.
"He said unto them, Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." Mark 16:15
It’s helpful to memorize the scriptures that tell us about Christ and how to be saved. Everyone should know John 3:16, and how to lead someone to Christ is the Romans Road: Romans 3:23, Romans 3:10, Romans 5:8, Romans 6:23, Romans 10:9-10, Romans 10:13.
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile." Romans 1:16.
God started the work in you, and He promises to finish it. (Philippians 1:6) "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." God bless you as you continue to mature in your faith!
If You Experience Some Doubts About Your Own Salvation.
If you experience Doubts of your Salvation now that you’re a new Christian I want you to know that you may experience doubts that you’re not saved or that nothing has really happened to you. This can be because the feeling of excitement has worn off, but it’s important to know that you’re not saved because you had a certain feeling when it happened.
The Bible Says “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Feelings don’t prove were saved or not, if you truly asked forgiveness of your sins and sincerely put your trust in Jesus Christ for your eternal salvation then YOU ARE SAVED!
As Christians “For we live by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) this also means we don’t walk by feelings or our senses. When we trust Christ and put our faith in him, we are saved. More about confidence in your new relationship with Christ here.
Encourage You in your new found walk with Jesus!!ENCOURAGE YOU!
I highly recommend if you are a new Christian to follow these steps I’ve outlined above. They will be a great help and encouragement to you. Even if you have never prayed, read a Bible before or been to church don’t feel silly to try. God wants you to talk to him and understand His word, and the right church family will make you feel welcome and help you grow spiritually in your walk with the Lord.
If you would like more information about finding a nurturing biblical Church in your area feel free to contact us. There are many types of churches with different beliefs, and as a new Christian, it can be hard to know which one is the right one to inspire biblical spiritual growth. I would be more than happy to help put you find a caring Bible believing Church that will help you grow here.
If you have any questions about anything I have talked about here, I am willing to answer questions personally by contacting us at the Patch
[email protected]
Here are a few helpful tips on how to study the Bible and grow spiritually this year. Are you ready? Here goes…
Study a Book of the Bible - If you are new to the Bible or a new Christian we highly recommend starting at the Book of John in the New Testament. We have two study guides on the Gospel of John you can have for free – just ask.
Plan 2 - Our plan is 21 days Bible Reading 15 minutes a day challenge for new Christians and those searching and people on the go. Start your day by talking to God, reading the Bible and reflecting on your day. We have created a unique series of study guides to go along with your daily reading on Gospel of John sent once a day by email for 21 days on the Gospel of John here. Just ask us
FREE BIBLE STUDY GUIDES
Bible Study Guides that are relevant, engaging and life-changing — making your life better now, and giving you a real, solid hope for your future. Use these study guides to improve your understanding of the Bible and strengthen your faith. Consider the following options, but remember to choose one. Regular reading in God's Word is not optional. It's a necessity!
Request any of our free Patch Study Guides just for the asking – contact us at: [email protected]
1. God’s Simple Plan of Salvation – Searching for Answers – three week guide.
2. New Christian Study Guide – New To Christianity – three week study guide.
3. Steps to Spiritual Maturity Guide – Nurturing Resources – three week guide.
4. The Gospel of John – Knowing God Better – Personal book study - three weeks.
5. Inspirational Daily Devotionals – Encouraging Spiritual Reflections – daily.
6. Monthly Newsletter – Christ Centered Information – once a month.
7. Personal Evangelism Training – Share the Gospel – fun creative way.
SHARE YOUR STORY HERE - [email protected]
Yes, I have decided to follow Jesus.
Yes, I am already a Christian.
Still, have Questions?
Let us know your Decision
"Lord Jesus, I believe you are the Son of God. Thank you for dying on the cross for my sins. Please forgive my sins and give me the gift of eternal life. I ask you into my life and heart to be my Lord and Savior. I want to serve you always."
Did you pray this prayer? Let us know in “Submit your comments”
NOW, WHAT DO I DO?
If you prayed this prayer and meant it with all your heart, YOU ARE SAVED! You have now been born again, spiritually, and are a child of God. Your sins have been forgiven, and today begins the first day of many in your new walk with God.
If you are unsure? More information on how to become a Christian – just ask us.
We Are Glad You Decided To Give Your Life To Jesus Christ.
As a Christian What Should I do Next?
If you have received Jesus Christ as your Savior, as a Christian, you should:
1. Read your Bible every day to get to know Christ better.
The reason that this is important is that the Bible tells us what God wants us to do, it is God’s Word. As you begin to read it every day, it will cause you to grow spiritually. More information on understanding God's Word here and Bible Study Methods here.
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Psalms 119:105
2. Talk to God in prayer every day.
It’s important to pray and talk to God daily. He longs to hear from you and to fellowship with you. Prayer is a beautiful resource many Christians neglect to use, but it is a BIG part of having a relationship with God.
If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.
Matthew 21:22
Check out a Scriptural model Christian prayer here.
You don’t have to use eloquent speech and try and be someone your not with God. He knows your heart and wants you to talk to him like you would any dear friend, with reverence, of course. You can talk to God about anything, He is your heavenly father, and He wants to know you and have a relationship with you.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petiton, with thanksgiving, present your request to God.
Philippians 4:6.
3. As a new Christian be water baptized.
Baptism symbolizes your new life in Christ and proclaims that you are now committed to Jesus.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Matthew 28:19
Jesus was baptized. Luke 3:21-22. And He calls His followers also to be baptized. Baptism was practiced by the very first followers of Jesus. "Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day." Acts 2:41
Usually, the leaders of a local church perform the baptism. A local church pastor or church leader should be glad to speak with you about baptism if you express your interest. We get baptized because we are saved, not to be saved.
4. Worship, Fellowship, and build Friendships with other Christians.
In a church where Christ is preached.
The Christian life is designed to be enjoyed with others. Jesus invested much of His ministry with 12 disciples as His closest friends. He likewise calls us to live in a community with one another. If you would like more information about finding a loving local Church in your area feel free to contact us here.
"Not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching." " Hebrews 10:25
The New Testament has a lot “one another” verses that refer to loving one another, serving one another, encouraging one another, and praying for one another. Each of these commands requires relationships with other Christians.
5. Serve with Other Christians.
As you begin your new life as a Christian, you will find a new love inside you, giving you a desire to help others. The Holy Spirit will lead you in ways to help. You might serve the poor in your community, assist a neighbor with yard work, or visit a sick friend in the hospital.
"If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth."
(1 John 3:17-18).
6. Tell others about Christ.
Becoming a Christian is not a secret; it’s a celebration! Tell all who will listen about Christ’s work in your life. It’s up to us as Christians to share the Good News with others. Maybe you know someone close to you who doesn't know Christ, and you can lead that person to Christ. If you don’t know what to say, share what you know and what God has done for you. If they know, they are a sinner and need a Savior and they want to pray and ask forgiveness of their sins and trust Christ as their Savior then you can lead them in prayer or let them pray on their own, its straightforward Today, Christians are still called to share the hope within us with others.
"He said unto them, Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." Mark 16:15
It’s helpful to memorize the scriptures that tell us about Christ and how to be saved. Everyone should know John 3:16, and how to lead someone to Christ is the Romans Road: Romans 3:23, Romans 3:10, Romans 5:8, Romans 6:23, Romans 10:9-10, Romans 10:13.
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile." Romans 1:16.
God started the work in you, and He promises to finish it. (Philippians 1:6) "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." God bless you as you continue to mature in your faith!
If You Experience Some Doubts About Your Own Salvation.
If you experience Doubts of your Salvation now that you’re a new Christian I want you to know that you may experience doubts that you’re not saved or that nothing has really happened to you. This can be because the feeling of excitement has worn off, but it’s important to know that you’re not saved because you had a certain feeling when it happened.
The Bible Says “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Feelings don’t prove were saved or not, if you truly asked forgiveness of your sins and sincerely put your trust in Jesus Christ for your eternal salvation then YOU ARE SAVED!
As Christians “For we live by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) this also means we don’t walk by feelings or our senses. When we trust Christ and put our faith in him, we are saved. More about confidence in your new relationship with Christ here.
Encourage You in your new found walk with Jesus!!ENCOURAGE YOU!
I highly recommend if you are a new Christian to follow these steps I’ve outlined above. They will be a great help and encouragement to you. Even if you have never prayed, read a Bible before or been to church don’t feel silly to try. God wants you to talk to him and understand His word, and the right church family will make you feel welcome and help you grow spiritually in your walk with the Lord.
If you would like more information about finding a nurturing biblical Church in your area feel free to contact us. There are many types of churches with different beliefs, and as a new Christian, it can be hard to know which one is the right one to inspire biblical spiritual growth. I would be more than happy to help put you find a caring Bible believing Church that will help you grow here.
If you have any questions about anything I have talked about here, I am willing to answer questions personally by contacting us at the Patch
[email protected]
Here are a few helpful tips on how to study the Bible and grow spiritually this year. Are you ready? Here goes…
Study a Book of the Bible - If you are new to the Bible or a new Christian we highly recommend starting at the Book of John in the New Testament. We have two study guides on the Gospel of John you can have for free – just ask.
Plan 2 - Our plan is 21 days Bible Reading 15 minutes a day challenge for new Christians and those searching and people on the go. Start your day by talking to God, reading the Bible and reflecting on your day. We have created a unique series of study guides to go along with your daily reading on Gospel of John sent once a day by email for 21 days on the Gospel of John here. Just ask us
FREE BIBLE STUDY GUIDES
Bible Study Guides that are relevant, engaging and life-changing — making your life better now, and giving you a real, solid hope for your future. Use these study guides to improve your understanding of the Bible and strengthen your faith. Consider the following options, but remember to choose one. Regular reading in God's Word is not optional. It's a necessity!
Request any of our free Patch Study Guides just for the asking – contact us at: [email protected]
1. God’s Simple Plan of Salvation – Searching for Answers – three week guide.
2. New Christian Study Guide – New To Christianity – three week study guide.
3. Steps to Spiritual Maturity Guide – Nurturing Resources – three week guide.
4. The Gospel of John – Knowing God Better – Personal book study - three weeks.
5. Inspirational Daily Devotionals – Encouraging Spiritual Reflections – daily.
6. Monthly Newsletter – Christ Centered Information – once a month.
7. Personal Evangelism Training – Share the Gospel – fun creative way.
SHARE YOUR STORY HERE - [email protected]
Yes, I have decided to follow Jesus.
Yes, I am already a Christian.
Still, have Questions?
Let us know your Decision
- Blessings always, Pastor Glenn
Firm Foundations Keeping a close personal walk with God.
Walking through the classroom door, I could only imagine what I might be getting myself into. Secular college, I’d heard, would be a spiritual battlefield like none I’d experienced before. Would my faith survive?
As the semester unfolded, I constantly heard messages which contradicted God’s word—like the idea that humans evolved from apelike ancestors over millions of years. This idea lies at the heart of a worldview—a system of thinking about everything in the world—known as secular humanism. A quote from one of my professors summed up this worldview by claiming, “God did not create people; people created God.”
Although I realized these ideas were false, hearing them taught as fact every day wore on me. What helped me survive with my biblical beliefs intact? The answer comes down to three personal foundations that God had helped me prepare as a teenager:
Spiritual foundations: Keeping a close personal walk with God.
Intellectual foundations: Being able to logically defend biblical beliefs and answer messages that oppose God’s Word.
Interpersonal foundations: Staying surrounded by strong Christian community, including godly family, friends, church, and older mentors.
After I graduated, I backpacked 360° around the world asking other Christian students about their university experiences. These conversations revealed that, although Christian students face diverse challenges worldwide, the solutions for overcoming those challenges look incredibly similar. They all trace back to having those three foundations I’d needed as a student.
What are some of the top practical steps that Christian young people can take to develop these foundations? Answering this for all three foundations will take a couple more articles. But for now, let’s start with Spiritual Foundations.
Walking with God
No student can keep their faith during university unless they have their own faith to begin with. The point isn’t for us to masquerade behind our families’ faith, but to cultivate vibrant personal relationships with God that color our moment-to-moment lives. As a result, we ground our identities in this relationship with Jesus rather than in anything temporary.
During my own teen years, nothing kindled my desire to pursue God this way more than reading missionary biographies. Stories of ordinary people who witnessed God’s extraordinary faithfulness made me want to know God like that myself, and to approach every aspect of life—even schoolwork and summer jobs—as part of a greater mission with Jesus. With this mindset, I could view challenges in university as opportunities to draw closer to God by giving him my concerns (1 Peter 5:7).
How to Build Spiritual Foundations
If spiritual foundations involve walking closely with God, how can we build those foundations now—and keep them strong throughout university? Here are three ways:
Pray
Talking to our heavenly Father is one of the best ways to draw close to God and impact our world. A vibrant prayer life includes not only setting apart daily time to meet with God, but also practicing an ongoing attitude of prayer by transforming whatever we’re doing, thinking, and feeling into opportunities to pray throughout the day.
Worship
After hearing a tough lecture full of unbiblical messages in college, I remember heading outside to detox my mind by listening to worship. Playing instrumental worship while we work, taking study breaks to sing or listen to worship, and checking the songs in our heads throughout the day are all great ways to stay “in tune” with our Creator.
Soak in Scripture
Reading God’s Word every day, memorizing verses, and even listening to audio Bibles while going about our day helps us stay filled with Scripture. This, in turn, equips us to spot lies, counter temptation, and live the lives for which we were created.
Along the way, we can keep our foundations strong by prioritizing daily time with God, being aware of little compromises which could hinder our relationship with God, and drawing biblical boundaries ahead of time—before we face pressure to compromise our convictions.
Pursuing God
Ultimately, building strong spiritual foundations prepares us not only to thrive as Christians in college but also to live the life we were created for: a life of relationship with God. Then, whichever doors God leads us through—whether into a college classroom or out to the world beyond—we’ll be confident that we’re going there with our Creator.
Picture this: you’re sitting in class when the lecturer says something that contradicts Scripture—something you’ve never heard before. As everyone else nods and takes notes, you notice your heart is beating faster. What if you’re wrong about your biblical beliefs?
This scenario isn’t just imaginary. It’s what I’ve experienced firsthand as a Christian student at secular college. But we don’t only hear unbiblical messages in classrooms. Whether online, in conversations, or even at church, persuasive—but unbiblical—messages may pop up anywhere. How can we respond?
Enter, Intellectual Foundations
The answer lies in having what I’d call strong intellectual foundations—one of three personal foundations Christian students need to keep their faith strong at college, as my last article explained.
Building intellectual foundations involves learning some basic apologetics. As the field of study which looks at why Christianity makes rational sense, apologetics helps us answer questions like, “How do we know the Bible is true? Does science contradict Scripture? How does Christianity compare to other beliefs?” (A great place to dig into these topics is AnswersinGenesis.org.)
But no matter how many apologetics answers we learn; we’re always bound to have new questions. So, we must also be able to think like apologists—to process new faith-challenging messages and arrive at biblical, logical answers ourselves. That’s where the other side of intellectual foundations comes in: biblical critical thinking skills.
Critical thinking is all about evaluating messages to see if they’re worth believing. To give you a head start building strong intellectual foundations, let me share the critical thinking system that helped me process new messages in college.
How I Learned to Think About ‘Facts’ That Challenged My Faith:
First, when I heard information that seemed to contradict my beliefs, I resolved not to panic. I knew God’s word is true; therefore, any message that conflicts with Scripture must be a lie. And every lie must ultimately fall apart.
With that in mind, I’d put faith-challenging information in quotation marks when writing notes in class. This reminded me that the information was just my professor’s explanation—not an absolute fact. Next, I’d flip to the back of my notebook and write down my questions about the information. This record of my questions let me follow up on finding answers later without feeling like a weight of vague uncertainties was accumulating against my beliefs.
When I had the chance, I would then filter the information through a series of mental checkpoints I call the Seven Checks of Critical Thinking:
Check Scripture: What does the Bible have to say about this topic?
Check the challenge: Does this message contradict clear teaching from Scripture?
Check the source: Who’s sharing this message? What is the source’s credibility and worldview? How did they arrive at their information? Is the information being reported accurately?
Check the definitions: How are keywords being defined? Do their meanings change?
Check for propaganda: Why does this message sound true? Is it trying to persuade by appealing to logic, or to something else like emotion, appearances, or humans’ desire for acceptance?
Check the interpretations: Which parts of this message are facts we can observe in the present, and which parts are assumptions, interpretations, or speculations about the past? What’s another way to explain the same observations from a biblical perspective?
Check the logic: Are there any other errors in reasoning that should make me think twice before believing this message?
This seven-step framework helped me respond biblically to almost all the faith-challenging information I encountered in college. But sometimes, I still had unresolved questions. That’s when I’d have to give God my remaining questions, to remember that He held the answer, and to trust Him even if He never revealed that answer to me.
Unanswered questions can be fiendish faith destroyers. But faith crises don’t start when Christians begin asking questions. They start when we give up on finding answers. And three great places to find answers include Scripture, solid apologetics resources, and godly mentors. (More on that next time!)
Thinking Biblically
With these tools for evaluating new information, and with apologetics knowledge for answering common questions, you’ll be well set to build strong intellectual foundations. Then you’ll be prepared to defend your hope in Christ with gentleness (1 Peter 3:15) whenever you hear new a faith-challenging message—in college and beyond.
“I can’t hold on much longer,” I admitted, trying not to look down.
Hiking with a friend had seemed like a great idea until we became stranded on a cliff. While my friend managed to pass the danger zone, I remained stuck with no further footholds—and time running out.
“Don’t you have a rope in your backpack?” my friend asked.
Right! I fished out the cord and tossed one end to my friend, who had a firmer grip on the cliff. Together, we worked our way to safety.
I share the rest of this story in my book for Christian students, Prepare to Thrive, explaining how, like I needed a rope connected to a grounded friend, Christian students need connections with others who are securely gripping the Rock, Jesus. A support system of these connections makes up a student’s interpersonal foundations—one of three foundations Christians need to keep their faith strong at college. (You can learn about the other two in my previous articles. Part 2)
Students I’ve met around the world weave their interpersonal foundations from communities including campus ministries, biblical churches, and godly mentors. Let’s look at practical tips for getting involved with each.
Campus Ministry
The benefits of joining a campus ministry can include friendship, encouragement, prayer support, accountability, opportunities to serve, and—importantly—regular reminders that you’re not alone in your biblical beliefs. However, some students I’ve spoken with said they couldn’t find solid Christian groups. The leaders didn’t teach the Bible, or the members didn’t act like they knew Jesus.
Joining a group with compromised doctrines or lifestyles can do your spirit more harm than good. To recognize an unhealthy group, ask:
Are there doctrinal issues within the leadership?
How will spending time with this group impact my spiritual health?
Will these relationships more likely lead me closer to God or closer to compromise?
Your personal boundaries will be far easier to overstep if professing Christians around you overstep them too. The point of steering clear of such relationships isn’t to be self-righteous, but to guard your heart and relationship with God (1 Corinthians 5:9-11).
Local Church
As awesome as campus ministries can be, peer groups alone aren’t enough. Students also need connections with the wider Body of Christ. That’s where the local church comes in. As a retired professor once told me, “Not attending church is the biggest mistake students make.”
Research suggests that students who move away to college are most likely to stay plugged into church if they find a new home church within two months. So, it’s essential to find a solid church early. What should students look for in a church? The most important must-have is solid biblical teaching. Ask, “Does this church believe, teach, and live out God’s Word?”
Older Mentors
Churches are prime places to connect with potential mentors. A mentor is simply anyone willing to personally share valuable wisdom, knowledge, and insights to benefit someone less experienced. From what I’ve seen, students can benefit from at least three types of mentors:
Sages—seasoned individuals you might meet for regular discipleship.
Allies—older Christians who offer informal support, whether by inviting you for lunch, chatting with you after church, or praying for your exams.
Responders—people who you may not see often, but who are always available to answer questions or offer advice.
What are some practical ways to find mentors? Here are seven ideas:
Ask God to connect you with the right people.
Look for trusted Christians who you want to be like and ask if they’d be willing to meet.
Consistently attend a biblical, intergenerational church.
Intentionally get to know older adults who walk closely with God.
Find ways to serve or volunteer alongside mature Christians.
Be open to asking older Christians for prayer.
Remember that books and media work like mentors too. Through (auto)biographies especially, we can be mentored by extraordinary men and women of God throughout history! On the flip side, beware of negative media influences, because we become like those we spend time with.
Solidly Connected
Ultimately, connecting with godly mentors, biblical churches, and campus ministries are three ways to build interpersonal foundations for surviving university. And the number one trait to seek in all three community types is a commitment to God’s word. By surrounding ourselves with others who seek to learn, understand, and follow Scripture—and by being such people ourselves—we can stay grounded for life on the Rock.
Don’t give up. Know the Word, put down deep roots so when the storms come, you will stand strong and tall.
Walking through the classroom door, I could only imagine what I might be getting myself into. Secular college, I’d heard, would be a spiritual battlefield like none I’d experienced before. Would my faith survive?
As the semester unfolded, I constantly heard messages which contradicted God’s word—like the idea that humans evolved from apelike ancestors over millions of years. This idea lies at the heart of a worldview—a system of thinking about everything in the world—known as secular humanism. A quote from one of my professors summed up this worldview by claiming, “God did not create people; people created God.”
Although I realized these ideas were false, hearing them taught as fact every day wore on me. What helped me survive with my biblical beliefs intact? The answer comes down to three personal foundations that God had helped me prepare as a teenager:
Spiritual foundations: Keeping a close personal walk with God.
Intellectual foundations: Being able to logically defend biblical beliefs and answer messages that oppose God’s Word.
Interpersonal foundations: Staying surrounded by strong Christian community, including godly family, friends, church, and older mentors.
After I graduated, I backpacked 360° around the world asking other Christian students about their university experiences. These conversations revealed that, although Christian students face diverse challenges worldwide, the solutions for overcoming those challenges look incredibly similar. They all trace back to having those three foundations I’d needed as a student.
What are some of the top practical steps that Christian young people can take to develop these foundations? Answering this for all three foundations will take a couple more articles. But for now, let’s start with Spiritual Foundations.
Walking with God
No student can keep their faith during university unless they have their own faith to begin with. The point isn’t for us to masquerade behind our families’ faith, but to cultivate vibrant personal relationships with God that color our moment-to-moment lives. As a result, we ground our identities in this relationship with Jesus rather than in anything temporary.
During my own teen years, nothing kindled my desire to pursue God this way more than reading missionary biographies. Stories of ordinary people who witnessed God’s extraordinary faithfulness made me want to know God like that myself, and to approach every aspect of life—even schoolwork and summer jobs—as part of a greater mission with Jesus. With this mindset, I could view challenges in university as opportunities to draw closer to God by giving him my concerns (1 Peter 5:7).
How to Build Spiritual Foundations
If spiritual foundations involve walking closely with God, how can we build those foundations now—and keep them strong throughout university? Here are three ways:
Pray
Talking to our heavenly Father is one of the best ways to draw close to God and impact our world. A vibrant prayer life includes not only setting apart daily time to meet with God, but also practicing an ongoing attitude of prayer by transforming whatever we’re doing, thinking, and feeling into opportunities to pray throughout the day.
Worship
After hearing a tough lecture full of unbiblical messages in college, I remember heading outside to detox my mind by listening to worship. Playing instrumental worship while we work, taking study breaks to sing or listen to worship, and checking the songs in our heads throughout the day are all great ways to stay “in tune” with our Creator.
Soak in Scripture
Reading God’s Word every day, memorizing verses, and even listening to audio Bibles while going about our day helps us stay filled with Scripture. This, in turn, equips us to spot lies, counter temptation, and live the lives for which we were created.
Along the way, we can keep our foundations strong by prioritizing daily time with God, being aware of little compromises which could hinder our relationship with God, and drawing biblical boundaries ahead of time—before we face pressure to compromise our convictions.
Pursuing God
Ultimately, building strong spiritual foundations prepares us not only to thrive as Christians in college but also to live the life we were created for: a life of relationship with God. Then, whichever doors God leads us through—whether into a college classroom or out to the world beyond—we’ll be confident that we’re going there with our Creator.
Picture this: you’re sitting in class when the lecturer says something that contradicts Scripture—something you’ve never heard before. As everyone else nods and takes notes, you notice your heart is beating faster. What if you’re wrong about your biblical beliefs?
This scenario isn’t just imaginary. It’s what I’ve experienced firsthand as a Christian student at secular college. But we don’t only hear unbiblical messages in classrooms. Whether online, in conversations, or even at church, persuasive—but unbiblical—messages may pop up anywhere. How can we respond?
Enter, Intellectual Foundations
The answer lies in having what I’d call strong intellectual foundations—one of three personal foundations Christian students need to keep their faith strong at college, as my last article explained.
Building intellectual foundations involves learning some basic apologetics. As the field of study which looks at why Christianity makes rational sense, apologetics helps us answer questions like, “How do we know the Bible is true? Does science contradict Scripture? How does Christianity compare to other beliefs?” (A great place to dig into these topics is AnswersinGenesis.org.)
But no matter how many apologetics answers we learn; we’re always bound to have new questions. So, we must also be able to think like apologists—to process new faith-challenging messages and arrive at biblical, logical answers ourselves. That’s where the other side of intellectual foundations comes in: biblical critical thinking skills.
Critical thinking is all about evaluating messages to see if they’re worth believing. To give you a head start building strong intellectual foundations, let me share the critical thinking system that helped me process new messages in college.
How I Learned to Think About ‘Facts’ That Challenged My Faith:
First, when I heard information that seemed to contradict my beliefs, I resolved not to panic. I knew God’s word is true; therefore, any message that conflicts with Scripture must be a lie. And every lie must ultimately fall apart.
With that in mind, I’d put faith-challenging information in quotation marks when writing notes in class. This reminded me that the information was just my professor’s explanation—not an absolute fact. Next, I’d flip to the back of my notebook and write down my questions about the information. This record of my questions let me follow up on finding answers later without feeling like a weight of vague uncertainties was accumulating against my beliefs.
When I had the chance, I would then filter the information through a series of mental checkpoints I call the Seven Checks of Critical Thinking:
Check Scripture: What does the Bible have to say about this topic?
Check the challenge: Does this message contradict clear teaching from Scripture?
Check the source: Who’s sharing this message? What is the source’s credibility and worldview? How did they arrive at their information? Is the information being reported accurately?
Check the definitions: How are keywords being defined? Do their meanings change?
Check for propaganda: Why does this message sound true? Is it trying to persuade by appealing to logic, or to something else like emotion, appearances, or humans’ desire for acceptance?
Check the interpretations: Which parts of this message are facts we can observe in the present, and which parts are assumptions, interpretations, or speculations about the past? What’s another way to explain the same observations from a biblical perspective?
Check the logic: Are there any other errors in reasoning that should make me think twice before believing this message?
This seven-step framework helped me respond biblically to almost all the faith-challenging information I encountered in college. But sometimes, I still had unresolved questions. That’s when I’d have to give God my remaining questions, to remember that He held the answer, and to trust Him even if He never revealed that answer to me.
Unanswered questions can be fiendish faith destroyers. But faith crises don’t start when Christians begin asking questions. They start when we give up on finding answers. And three great places to find answers include Scripture, solid apologetics resources, and godly mentors. (More on that next time!)
Thinking Biblically
With these tools for evaluating new information, and with apologetics knowledge for answering common questions, you’ll be well set to build strong intellectual foundations. Then you’ll be prepared to defend your hope in Christ with gentleness (1 Peter 3:15) whenever you hear new a faith-challenging message—in college and beyond.
“I can’t hold on much longer,” I admitted, trying not to look down.
Hiking with a friend had seemed like a great idea until we became stranded on a cliff. While my friend managed to pass the danger zone, I remained stuck with no further footholds—and time running out.
“Don’t you have a rope in your backpack?” my friend asked.
Right! I fished out the cord and tossed one end to my friend, who had a firmer grip on the cliff. Together, we worked our way to safety.
I share the rest of this story in my book for Christian students, Prepare to Thrive, explaining how, like I needed a rope connected to a grounded friend, Christian students need connections with others who are securely gripping the Rock, Jesus. A support system of these connections makes up a student’s interpersonal foundations—one of three foundations Christians need to keep their faith strong at college. (You can learn about the other two in my previous articles. Part 2)
Students I’ve met around the world weave their interpersonal foundations from communities including campus ministries, biblical churches, and godly mentors. Let’s look at practical tips for getting involved with each.
Campus Ministry
The benefits of joining a campus ministry can include friendship, encouragement, prayer support, accountability, opportunities to serve, and—importantly—regular reminders that you’re not alone in your biblical beliefs. However, some students I’ve spoken with said they couldn’t find solid Christian groups. The leaders didn’t teach the Bible, or the members didn’t act like they knew Jesus.
Joining a group with compromised doctrines or lifestyles can do your spirit more harm than good. To recognize an unhealthy group, ask:
Are there doctrinal issues within the leadership?
How will spending time with this group impact my spiritual health?
Will these relationships more likely lead me closer to God or closer to compromise?
Your personal boundaries will be far easier to overstep if professing Christians around you overstep them too. The point of steering clear of such relationships isn’t to be self-righteous, but to guard your heart and relationship with God (1 Corinthians 5:9-11).
Local Church
As awesome as campus ministries can be, peer groups alone aren’t enough. Students also need connections with the wider Body of Christ. That’s where the local church comes in. As a retired professor once told me, “Not attending church is the biggest mistake students make.”
Research suggests that students who move away to college are most likely to stay plugged into church if they find a new home church within two months. So, it’s essential to find a solid church early. What should students look for in a church? The most important must-have is solid biblical teaching. Ask, “Does this church believe, teach, and live out God’s Word?”
Older Mentors
Churches are prime places to connect with potential mentors. A mentor is simply anyone willing to personally share valuable wisdom, knowledge, and insights to benefit someone less experienced. From what I’ve seen, students can benefit from at least three types of mentors:
Sages—seasoned individuals you might meet for regular discipleship.
Allies—older Christians who offer informal support, whether by inviting you for lunch, chatting with you after church, or praying for your exams.
Responders—people who you may not see often, but who are always available to answer questions or offer advice.
What are some practical ways to find mentors? Here are seven ideas:
Ask God to connect you with the right people.
Look for trusted Christians who you want to be like and ask if they’d be willing to meet.
Consistently attend a biblical, intergenerational church.
Intentionally get to know older adults who walk closely with God.
Find ways to serve or volunteer alongside mature Christians.
Be open to asking older Christians for prayer.
Remember that books and media work like mentors too. Through (auto)biographies especially, we can be mentored by extraordinary men and women of God throughout history! On the flip side, beware of negative media influences, because we become like those we spend time with.
Solidly Connected
Ultimately, connecting with godly mentors, biblical churches, and campus ministries are three ways to build interpersonal foundations for surviving university. And the number one trait to seek in all three community types is a commitment to God’s word. By surrounding ourselves with others who seek to learn, understand, and follow Scripture—and by being such people ourselves—we can stay grounded for life on the Rock.
Don’t give up. Know the Word, put down deep roots so when the storms come, you will stand strong and tall.
I gave my life to Jesus … now what?
AWESOME! If you have given your life to Jesus Christ and accepted Him as your personal Savior from the punishment of sin, you are on a newly paved road that is the beginning of your story of eternal life (John 3:16; 10:10). Every one of your sins have been forgiven—past, present, and future sins included—and you are starting all over, shiny and new (Romans 4:7). The angels are cheering with you in a glorious joy that cannot be explained in words (1 Peter 1:8-9)!
We hope your heart is filled with the wonder that is having Jesus in your life. Now that you have taken this step though, you may be thinking, "Now what? What am I supposed to do as a new Christian?" Thankfully, the Bible is like our personal guide to Life, the Universe, and Everything Else. Here are some of the things it says for new believers:
Read the Bible
Maybe it sounds a little Captain Obvious, but the Bible is our personal love letter from God. He wants us to know how much He loves us, understand who He is, and learn the best way to live our lives for Him. Second Timothy 2:15 says, "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."
Translations: The Bible was originally written in Greek and Hebrew, so you'll find lots of different translations into English and other languages. None of these is perfect, but we highly suggest that you choose a Bible you find easy to understand and that is faithful to the original text. BibleGateway.com or YouVersion.com are great places to try out some of the most popular translations today. For the most part, we use the English Standard Version (ESV) on 412teens.
Where to start reading: There are 66 books in the Bible, which might seem kind of overwhelming. A really good place to make that first crack in your Bible is the book of Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. These books are commonly referred to as the gospels and tell the story of what Jesus did and said while He was a man on earth. Our parent site, GotQuestions.org, is a really good resource for answering some of the day-to-day questions that might come up about what the Bible says on certain spiritual issues. (And we are adding more here on 412teens regularly too!)
Talk to God
As a new believer in Christ, we should hold an open conversation with God. Prayer is just a word for simply talking with God. Some people believe prayer is a set of formal words or includes a list of certain things or that it can only be done during church. But that is so not the case!
The Bible actually tells us to pray without ever stopping (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Praise God day and night in everything that happens to you. Ask Him to provide for your essential, daily needs. Pray for your friends, your family, your teachers, your neighbors. He is always there and always listening. No need to make an appointment, call, or text. Just think. He desires to know you deeply as He cares about you more than anyone you know. To know Him well, just the same way we get to know anybody, we should keep the conversation going always. Jesus' closest friends asked Him how to pray, and you can find His answer in Matthew 6:9-13.
Get Baptized
Baptism is a symbol that publicly shows your decision to have a new life in Christ. It's a way to tell everyone, "Hey, I believe, and I'm committed to Jesus now." Even Jesus was baptized (Luke 3:1-22), and He wants His followers to be baptized too. The very first believers performed baptisms (Acts 2:41).
Learn a bit more about baptism HERE. If you're ready to take that step, talk to the youth leaders of your church about getting baptized. They can help give you some direction on how to make it happen.
It's important to note though that baptism is NOT what saves you. The grace of God and your faith in Jesus is what saves you (Ephesians 2:8). Baptism is more of a proclamation than anything else.
Surround Yourself with Christian Friends
As a new believer, you will find yourself faced with new challenges and lots of questions. Build friendships with others Christians so that they can encourage you and you can encourage them in return. Jesus spent a ton of time with His twelve closest friends—the disciples. We should try to do life together, hanging out, talking about problems, praying for each other, and helping each other stay strong when times are hard.
Reading through the New Testament (the last half of the Bible), you'll find over 50 verses that use the term "one another," meaning that they refer to loving one another, serving one another, encouraging one another, and praying for one another. Having other believers have your back is an essential part of positive spiritual growth.
If you are able to find a local, Bible-teaching church where you live—great! If you find that it's hard to get involved where you are, pray that God will provide some opportunities for you to meet other believers. Who knows what form this may take, but be assured that God does want you to have Christian friends, and He will help you. Keep your eyes open for those opportunities!
Be Helpful
Once we have invited the love of Christ into our lives, that love begins to spread. You may find that you have a new desire to help other people in need. Let the Holy Spirit be your guide in recognizing ways to help. Always be on the lookout for those little moments. Maybe you help an elderly lady across the street. Maybe you pick up groceries for a mom whose 2-year old just tossed them into the parking lot. Maybe you offer to help a friend who is having a hard time at school. Maybe you pick up a rake and help your neighbor with yard work. Maybe you make a card and visit a sick friend. The Holy Spirit is always whispering these little acts of God's love; we just need to listen and act (1 John 3:17-18).
Tell someone about your new faith!
Becoming a Christian should not be a secret; it’s the most amazing celebration in Heaven and on earth! Tell anybody who will listen about how God has changed your life and how He is working through you. Who knows? Maybe you will change a life eternally just by sharing your story! In the moments before Jesus returned to Heaven, He told His disciples to "make disciples of all the nations" (Matthew 28:18-20). That applies to believers today too. We are still called to shine the hope of Christ upon others (1 Peter 3:15-16). You have the greatest gift in the universe right now, and it is meant to be shared!
Hopefully these few tips will help you get started as a new believer in Christ. But remember, they are not requirements you must follow in order to either become a Christian or to stay one. You have been saved by God's grace through your faith alone—not by doing anything (Ephesians 2:8-9). God has started spreading His love in your heart, and He promises to see you through to the end (Philippians 1:6).
May God bless you as you continue to grow stronger in your faith!
Pastor Glenn
Becoming a Christian is one of the best decisions you could ever make. It isn’t about church membership or doing enough good things, it is simply taking advantage of a free gift that God gives, salvation. He offers it to any person that asks Him.
God wants a relationship with you! You can start a relationship with God by simply asking Him to be the Lord or the boss of your life. The Bible says in Romans 10:9-10 – “For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.”
God makes becoming a Christian easy. You simply have to believe in your heart that Jesus is Lord and speak or confess that with your mouth. If you’d like to make Jesus the Lord of your life, simply pray this prayer: Jesus, I believe you are the son of God. I know that you died on the cross for me and you took away my sins. I believe that now I am your child. I choose to follow you from this day forward. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Next Steps: If you decided to become a Christian, it’s a good idea to get involved in a local church or youth group. Make sure that wherever you choose to go you can hear good teaching or preaching from the Bible that will challenge you to grow in your walk with God.
God wants a relationship with you! You can start a relationship with God by simply asking Him to be the Lord or the boss of your life. The Bible says in Romans 10:9-10 – “For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.”
God makes becoming a Christian easy. You simply have to believe in your heart that Jesus is Lord and speak or confess that with your mouth. If you’d like to make Jesus the Lord of your life, simply pray this prayer: Jesus, I believe you are the son of God. I know that you died on the cross for me and you took away my sins. I believe that now I am your child. I choose to follow you from this day forward. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Next Steps: If you decided to become a Christian, it’s a good idea to get involved in a local church or youth group. Make sure that wherever you choose to go you can hear good teaching or preaching from the Bible that will challenge you to grow in your walk with God.
Tuck these in your heart
1 Timothy 4:12 ESV
Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.
Ecclesiastes 11:9 ESV / 763 helpful votes
Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment.
Jeremiah 1:4-8 ESV / 679 helpful votes
Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord.”
Ecclesiastes 12:1 ESV / 505 helpful votes
Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, “I have no pleasure in them”;
Psalm 119:9 ESV / 446 helpful votes
How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.
2 Timothy 2:22 ESV / 352 helpful votes
So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV / 348 helpful votes
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Ephesians 6:1-4 ESV / 287 helpful votes
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Proverbs 23:26 ESV / 241 helpful votes
My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.
Ephesians 4:29 ESV / 235 helpful votes
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
Jeremiah 29:11 ESV / 230 helpful votes
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Psalm 144:12 ESV / 211 helpful votes
May our sons in their youth be like plants full grown, our daughters like corner pillars cut for the structure of a palace;
Romans 12:1-2 ESV / 202 helpful votes
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Leviticus 19:28 ESV / 199 helpful votes
You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.
Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV / 177 helpful votes
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV / 165 helpful votes
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
Matthew 11:28-30 ESV / 138 helpful votes
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Jeremiah 29:13 ESV / 136 helpful votes
You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.
Matthew 7:12 ESV / 133 helpful votes
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
Lamentations 3:27 ESV / 123 helpful votes
It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth.
John 3:16 ESV / 120 helpful votes
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
James 3:16 ESV / 114 helpful votes
For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.
Psalm 51:10-12 ESV / 109 helpful votes
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.
Psalm 139:14 ESV / 106 helpful votes
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
Philippians 4:13 ESV / 104 helpful votes
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
2 Timothy 3:16 ESV / 103 helpful votes
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
Ephesians 6:24 ESV / 96 helpful votes
Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible.
1 Timothy 4:1-16 ESV / 89 helpful votes
Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared, who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer. ...
Proverbs 5:18-19 ESV / 87 helpful votes
Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth, a lovely deer, a graceful doe. Let her breasts fill you at all times with delight; be intoxicated always in her love.
Ephesians 4:28 ESV / 84 helpful votes
Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.
Romans 8:31 ESV / 82 helpful votes
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Psalm 23:1-6 ESV / 82 helpful votes
A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. ...
Joshua 1:9 ESV / 82 helpful votes
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Proverbs 6:21 ESV / 81 helpful votes
Bind them on your heart always; tie them around your neck.
John 3:16-17 ESV / 80 helpful votes
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Luke 10:2 ESV / 73 helpful votes
And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.
Proverbs 4:20-22 ESV / 71 helpful votes
My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh.
Matthew 5:28 ESV / 69 helpful votes
But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Philippians 3:12 ESV / 68 helpful votes
Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.
Ephesians 6:1-2 ESV / 68 helpful votes
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise),
Ecclesiastes 11:10 ESV / 68 helpful votes
Remove vexation from your heart, and put away pain from your body, for youth and the dawn of life are vanity.
1 Corinthians 6:11 ESV / 64 helpful votes
And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
Acts 22:9-11 ESV / 64 helpful votes
Now those who were with me saw the light but did not understand the voice of the one who was speaking to me. And I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Rise, and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all that is appointed for you to do.’ And since I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me, and came into Damascus.
Psalm 103:1-5 ESV / 64 helpful votes
Of David. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Ecclesiastes 12:1-2 ESV / 61 helpful votes
Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, “I have no pleasure in them”; before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars are darkened and the clouds return after the rain,
Psalm 23:1-4 ESV / 59 helpful votes
A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Exodus 20:12 ESV / 58 helpful votes
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.
2 Corinthians 2:15 ESV / 57 helpful votes
For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing,
Hebrews 11:1 ESV / 56 helpful votes
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Proverbs 1:8-9 ESV / 55 helpful votes
Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching, for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 ESV / 55 helpful votes
“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. ...
Philippians 4:4-6 ESV / 54 helpful votes
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Psalm 27:10 ESV / 53 helpful votes
For my father and my mother have forsaken me, but the Lord will take me in.
Acts 2:1-47 ESV / 50 helpful votes
When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. ...
Jeremiah 1:1-19 ESV / 49 helpful votes
The words of Jeremiah, the son of Hilkiah, one of the priests who were in Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, to whom the word of the Lord came in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah, in the thirteenth year of his reign. It came also in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah, king of Judah, and until the end of the eleventh year of Zedekiah, the son of Josiah, king of Judah, until the captivity of Jerusalem in the fifth month. Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” ...
Daniel 6:7 ESV / 46 helpful votes
All the presidents of the kingdom, the prefects and the satraps, the counselors and the governors are agreed that the king should establish an ordinance and enforce an injunction, that whoever makes petition to any god or man for thirty days, except to you, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions.
Psalm 112:1-10 ESV / 46 helpful votes
Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments! His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever. Light dawns in the darkness for the upright; he is gracious, merciful, and righteous. It is well with the man who deals generously and lends; who conducts his affairs with justice. ...
Luke 11:9 ESV / 42 helpful votes
And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
Isaiah 40:29-31 ESV / 42 helpful votes
He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Psalm 1:1-3 ESV / 41 helpful votes
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.
Genesis 8:21 ESV / 41 helpful votes
And when the Lord smelled the pleasing aroma, the Lord said in his heart, “I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man's heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature as I have done.
John 1:9 ESV / 39 helpful votes
The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.
Proverbs 1:10 ESV / 39 helpful votes
My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.
Ephesians 6:1-3 ESV / 38 helpful votes
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.”
Isaiah 40:30 ESV / 38 helpful votes
Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted;
Micah 6:8 ESV / 37 helpful votes
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
1 Samuel 2:8 ESV / 37 helpful votes
He raises up the poor from the dust; he lifts the needy from the ash heap to make them sit with princes and inherit a seat of honor. For the pillars of the earth are the Lord's, and on them he has set the world.
James 3:1 ESV / 36 helpful votes
Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.
Mark 8:34 ESV / 36 helpful votes
And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
Psalm 25:7 ESV / 36 helpful votes
Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O Lord!
1 Corinthians 13:11 ESV / 34 helpful votes
When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways.
1 Corinthians 13:1-6 ESV / 34 helpful votes
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; ...
Romans 13:13 ESV / 34 helpful votes
Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.
Isaiah 41:6-7 ESV / 34 helpful votes
Everyone helps his neighbor and says to his brother, “Be strong!” The craftsman strengthens the goldsmith, and he who smooths with the hammer him who strikes the anvil, saying of the soldering, “It is good”; and they strengthen it with nails so that it cannot be moved.
Romans 12:2 ESV / 33 helpful votes
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Proverbs 8:32-33 ESV / 33 helpful votes
“And now, O sons, listen to me: blessed are those who keep my ways. Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it.
Proverbs 5:20-21 ESV / 33 helpful votes
Why should you be intoxicated, my son, with a forbidden woman and embrace the bosom of an adulteress? For a man's ways are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his paths.
James 2:14-17 ESV / 32 helpful votes
What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
Job 33:25 ESV / 32 helpful votes
Let his flesh become fresh with youth; let him return to the days of his youthful vigor’;
Proverbs 23:22 ESV / 31 helpful votes
Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.
Psalm 71:5 ESV / 31 helpful votes
For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
Mark 12:29-31 ESV / 30 helpful votes
Jesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
Proverbs 28:24 ESV / 30 helpful votes
Whoever robs his father or his mother and says, “That is no transgression,” is a companion to a man who destroys.
Proverbs 20:11 ESV / 30 helpful votes
Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright.
1 Samuel 15:23 ESV / 30 helpful votes
For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has also rejected you from being king.”
2 Timothy 2:1-26 ESV / 29 helpful votes
You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. ...
Mark 8:24 ESV / 27 helpful votes
And he looked up and said, “I see men, but they look like trees, walking.”
Joshua 1:7-9 ESV / 27 helpful votes
Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
1 Peter 5:5 ESV / 26 helpful votes
Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
Psalm 119:105 ESV / 26 helpful votes
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Ephesians 4:14 ESV / 24 helpful votes
So that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.
1 Peter 1:1-25 ESV / 23 helpful votes
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. ...
Proverbs 17:25 ESV / 23 helpful votes
A foolish son is a grief to his father and bitterness to her who bore him.
Exodus 33:14-16 ESV / 23 helpful votes
And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” And he said to him, “If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here. For how shall it be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people? Is it not in your going with us, so that we are distinct, I and your people, from every other people on the face of the earth?”
1 Timothy 5:1-2 ESV / 22 helpful votes
Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, in all purity.
Mark 8:1-16:20 ESV / 22 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful
In those days, when again a great crowd had gathered, and they had nothing to eat, he called his disciples to him and said to them, “I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat. And if I send them away hungry to their homes, they will faint on the way. And some of them have come from far away.” And his disciples answered him, “How can one feed these people with bread here in this desolate place?” And he asked them, “How many loaves do you have?” They said, “Seven.” ...
1 Peter 5:5-9 ESV / 21 helpful votes
Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.
Colossians 3:20 ESV / 21 helpful votes
Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.
Romans 8:13 ESV / 21 helpful votes
For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.
Romans 1:16 ESV / 20 helpful votes
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
Have you been searching in life to find peace, purpose, and fulfillment only to find loss, hurt and empty promises?
Your answers are not in things, but in a real person.
There is no exact formula or way to find God, but the good news is that God is searching for you — and He wants you to find Him. But to point you in the right direction, here are some practical steps to help you in your search for God:
1. PRAY
Ask God to help you find Him. Ask Him to show you himself even if you’re unsure He’s there. Prayer is simply talking honestly with God from your heart. Tell Him you’re looking for him. As you search, tell Him your questions, thoughts, doubts, fears and hopes.
2. FOCUS YOUR SEARCH ON JESUS
What is God like? What is His character? We can find the most tangible picture of who God is in the person of Jesus. A letter from one of Jesus’ followers writes, “He is the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15). When we look at Jesus we see the God who cannot be seen. Investigating Jesus — His character and claims — will lead you to God.
3. READ THE BIBLE
The Bible is a book about people’s search and relationship with God throughout history. It is also the most direct way to gain a clear picture of God in looking at the person of Jesus, because everything in the Bible points to Jesus.
4. ENGAGE YOUR BRAIN
Embarking on a spiritual search doesn’t mean you have to turn your brain off. As author Brian McLaren writes in his book Finding Faith, “Though a healthy faith is bigger than the intellect, the search for faith cannot bypass the intellect…This is a journey that will require you to think bigger than you ever have before and then to think bigger still.” Ask questions. Look at your discoveries — does it make reasonable sense? Knowing God shouldn’t be illogical if He invented logic itself.
On the other hand, don’t leave your heart behind either. God doesn’t want you to merely find out about Him; He wants you to actually find Him with your whole being — He wants you to know Him personally and have a relationship with him. A relationship that involves intellect with no heart is no relationship at all.
5. REMAIN OPEN
Your past has formed your beliefs about what is true and will affect how you react to the truth claims you encounter on your journey now. So, it’s important to recognize your preconceptions and stay open to ideas that may jar with what you’ve believed to be true. If there is a God, then He is far beyond total comprehension by anyone; so, to be honest in your search, you most hold your preconceived notions loosely. You are finite, after all.
6. ASK QUESTIONS
Question things that people seem to take for granted. Anything true or worth pursuing should be able to stand up against tough cross examination. Write down your questions, especially about the Bible and Jesus. Where can you ask and discuss your questions? Talk with people you know who follow Jesus. Join a discussion group in your area that explores God and Jesus or express your questions and thoughts to one of our confidential and free online mentors.
7. INVESTIGATE
Read articles, books, the Bible, and websites to see what others have to say. Ask people who follow Jesus what books and resources they have found helpful in getting a clearer picture of Jesus and God.
8. TALK TO PEOPLE WHO LOVE AND FOLLOW JESUS
Find people who show real evidence of living according to the teachings of Jesus. Ask how they discovered Jesus — how did they search? Why do they believe? How do they continue to discover more and develop their relationship with God?
9. JOURNAL
Record your thoughts, questions, discoveries and new insights. Think of it as a scrapbook of your spiritual journey.
10. SPEND TIME IN NATURE
A letter from one of Jesus’ followers explains the value of observing and experiencing God’s creation, “By taking a long and thoughtful look at what God has created, people have always been able to see what their eyes as such can’t see: eternal power, for instance, and the mystery of his divine being” (Romans 1:20, The MSG version).
11. MAKE TIME FOR YOUR SEARCH FOR GOD
The unseen and spiritual things in our lives are easily crowded out by the many things that urgently grab for our attention. Decide when you’ll take a few practical steps — read a book, spend an hour searching online, find someone to talk to. Give yourself a general time frame to search — then draw some initial conclusions you can act on.
12. EVALUATE AND RESPOND
There will come times where you need to react to what you discover about Jesus — what do you think of who He says he is? Is it true? How will you respond? Remember that you don’t have to know everything about something to know it with a measure of confidence, especially if that “something” is as vast as God! Even if you searched for evidence of God your whole lifetime, at some point finding God would involve an element of faith.
I’m sure you’ll have plenty of questions along the way. Finding God certainly doesn’t mean having the answers to all your questions immediately or completely. Whether you are just beginning to search for God or you found Him years ago and need to get reacquainted, questions are a natural and necessary part of your spiritual journey and growth. There are a million discoveries about God that are yet to come.
As you search for God, know that you are not the only one searching. Jesus is searching for you and wants you to find Him. In His own words, Jesus said, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened” (Matthew 7:7). I hope some of these steps help you discover the joy of knowing Jesus personally.
Your answers are not in things, but in a real person.
There is no exact formula or way to find God, but the good news is that God is searching for you — and He wants you to find Him. But to point you in the right direction, here are some practical steps to help you in your search for God:
1. PRAY
Ask God to help you find Him. Ask Him to show you himself even if you’re unsure He’s there. Prayer is simply talking honestly with God from your heart. Tell Him you’re looking for him. As you search, tell Him your questions, thoughts, doubts, fears and hopes.
2. FOCUS YOUR SEARCH ON JESUS
What is God like? What is His character? We can find the most tangible picture of who God is in the person of Jesus. A letter from one of Jesus’ followers writes, “He is the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15). When we look at Jesus we see the God who cannot be seen. Investigating Jesus — His character and claims — will lead you to God.
3. READ THE BIBLE
The Bible is a book about people’s search and relationship with God throughout history. It is also the most direct way to gain a clear picture of God in looking at the person of Jesus, because everything in the Bible points to Jesus.
4. ENGAGE YOUR BRAIN
Embarking on a spiritual search doesn’t mean you have to turn your brain off. As author Brian McLaren writes in his book Finding Faith, “Though a healthy faith is bigger than the intellect, the search for faith cannot bypass the intellect…This is a journey that will require you to think bigger than you ever have before and then to think bigger still.” Ask questions. Look at your discoveries — does it make reasonable sense? Knowing God shouldn’t be illogical if He invented logic itself.
On the other hand, don’t leave your heart behind either. God doesn’t want you to merely find out about Him; He wants you to actually find Him with your whole being — He wants you to know Him personally and have a relationship with him. A relationship that involves intellect with no heart is no relationship at all.
5. REMAIN OPEN
Your past has formed your beliefs about what is true and will affect how you react to the truth claims you encounter on your journey now. So, it’s important to recognize your preconceptions and stay open to ideas that may jar with what you’ve believed to be true. If there is a God, then He is far beyond total comprehension by anyone; so, to be honest in your search, you most hold your preconceived notions loosely. You are finite, after all.
6. ASK QUESTIONS
Question things that people seem to take for granted. Anything true or worth pursuing should be able to stand up against tough cross examination. Write down your questions, especially about the Bible and Jesus. Where can you ask and discuss your questions? Talk with people you know who follow Jesus. Join a discussion group in your area that explores God and Jesus or express your questions and thoughts to one of our confidential and free online mentors.
7. INVESTIGATE
Read articles, books, the Bible, and websites to see what others have to say. Ask people who follow Jesus what books and resources they have found helpful in getting a clearer picture of Jesus and God.
8. TALK TO PEOPLE WHO LOVE AND FOLLOW JESUS
Find people who show real evidence of living according to the teachings of Jesus. Ask how they discovered Jesus — how did they search? Why do they believe? How do they continue to discover more and develop their relationship with God?
9. JOURNAL
Record your thoughts, questions, discoveries and new insights. Think of it as a scrapbook of your spiritual journey.
10. SPEND TIME IN NATURE
A letter from one of Jesus’ followers explains the value of observing and experiencing God’s creation, “By taking a long and thoughtful look at what God has created, people have always been able to see what their eyes as such can’t see: eternal power, for instance, and the mystery of his divine being” (Romans 1:20, The MSG version).
11. MAKE TIME FOR YOUR SEARCH FOR GOD
The unseen and spiritual things in our lives are easily crowded out by the many things that urgently grab for our attention. Decide when you’ll take a few practical steps — read a book, spend an hour searching online, find someone to talk to. Give yourself a general time frame to search — then draw some initial conclusions you can act on.
12. EVALUATE AND RESPOND
There will come times where you need to react to what you discover about Jesus — what do you think of who He says he is? Is it true? How will you respond? Remember that you don’t have to know everything about something to know it with a measure of confidence, especially if that “something” is as vast as God! Even if you searched for evidence of God your whole lifetime, at some point finding God would involve an element of faith.
I’m sure you’ll have plenty of questions along the way. Finding God certainly doesn’t mean having the answers to all your questions immediately or completely. Whether you are just beginning to search for God or you found Him years ago and need to get reacquainted, questions are a natural and necessary part of your spiritual journey and growth. There are a million discoveries about God that are yet to come.
As you search for God, know that you are not the only one searching. Jesus is searching for you and wants you to find Him. In His own words, Jesus said, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened” (Matthew 7:7). I hope some of these steps help you discover the joy of knowing Jesus personally.
The story is told of a little boy who fell out of bed. Asked what happened, he said, "I guess I just stayed too close to the gettin'-in place." That is exactly why many people fall away from God after their conversion - they stay too close to the "gettin'-in" place and do not grow to maturity.
It is no shame to be a baby, if you were born a few months ago. But if a person has been a child of God for several years and has not grown, he has a problem.
Everyone needs to grow as a Christian, and everyone can grow, if he/she simply applies the Bible principles of growth.
People understand the concept of growth in the physical development of humans, and we know why it is important.
Babies are immature physically and mentally, but we expect them to develop. If they don't, there is a problem.
My best buddy in high school did not grow and might have been nearly a midget. But in his senior year, doctors gave him shots to make him grow.
Spiritual growth is a similar concept but is far more important.
Growth is development or improvement toward a goal called "maturity" (or, in the Bible, "perfection"). When one is "born again" as a child of God, he is spiritually immature. As time passes, he should develop the qualities or abilities which the Bible says characterize the mature. A congregation matures as individual members mature.
Many Scriptures describe the need to grow and mature spiritually:
Ephesians 4:14,15 - Be no longer children, but grow up in Christ.
2 Peter 3:18 - but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
2 Thessalonians 1:3 - The Thessalonians grew exceedingly in faith.
Philippians 1:9 - Paul prayed for their love to abound more and more.
Many problems result when members fail to grow: some go back to the world, others cause strife because of ignorance or become stumblingblocks because of irregular attendance, worldliness, or indifference.
The purpose of this lesson is to study the steps each Christian should take to grow spiritually.
Just as a baby needs to do certain things to grow physically, so Christians need certain kinds of activities to grow spiritually. When members don't grow, it is because they lack one or more of these.
I. A DESIRE TO GROW
A. We Will Never Grow Unless We Want to Grow
In the physical realm, children WANT to grow.
"I want to grow up to be just like Mommy/Daddy/Michael Jordan..." "I can't wait till I'm 16 so I can drive."
Parents and kids become so excited when kids learn something new - the first step, first word, draw picture, etc. Everyone wants them to develop new abilities.
Parents sometimes use this to encourage children. When Tim was small, he wanted to drink milk because Bill Buckner (Cubs' first baseman) advertised it.
Likewise, in spiritual matters, Christians must WANT to grow.
1 Peter 2:2 - Desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.
Some seem to like being spiritual babies. They don't want to grow. It's easy to be a baby - no responsibility. Others feed you, clothe you, change your diaper. In the church, you don't have to teach, rebuke sin, or do work. It's a free ride!
But being a baby is not the goal of life. We are born babies so we can grow up and be productive and useful. Likewise, we are born again, so we can become mature Christians, actively serving the Lord.
One of the conditions for becoming a child of God is REPENTANCE. One must determine to turn from sin and GO TO WORK in God's vineyard. Then one must bring forth the FRUITS of repentance. This will lead us to grow and improve in God's work. Otherwise, we have not accomplished our purpose for becoming children of God.
1 Peter 2:21 - Jesus set an example for us, and we should follow in His steps. We should ask ourselves, "Don't I want to grow up to be spiritually strong like Jesus?"
B. We Must Maintain This Desire to Grow.
Some members who once wanted to grow, may lose that desire.
They may start off on fire for the Lord, but lose their zeal. They develop a spirit of indifference or negligence.
Others develop a level of maturity and stagnate. They are satisfied, thinking no more growth is needed.
The Scriptures teach that growth is always needed.
Philippians 3:12-14 - Even Paul, as mature as he was, did not consider himself to have achieved perfection (maturity) such that he could cease striving to improve. He forgot past achievements (and failures) and pressed on to greater accomplishments.
Matthew 26:31-35 - Peter thought he had reached a level where he would never deny Jesus. But that very night he denied Him three times.
1 Corinthians 10:12 - Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. Christians never reach the point we are so mature that we cannot fall.
One of the main reasons Christians do not grow is that they do not see the NEED for growing. They have no desire to work and serve to the full extent of their ability. When people develop a burning hunger and thirst to work for the Lord, then they will develop the other steps they need to grow.
Do you have that burning desire to accomplish more for the Lord? Have you set specific goals of work you want to accomplish for God, improvements to make, new levels to reach?
II. NOURISHMENT
A. We Need Spiritual Food from God's Word.
A child cannot grow physically without proper food.
Good parents are concerned about proper nutrition. They want children to eat what is good, not bad for them. We are touched by pictures of children starving due to poverty.
Most children WANT nourishment. Babies cry for food. Once as a child I got so hungry I cried, and my mother felt really bad.
Even adults know we need food, and don't like to go long without it. We want it every day, regularly, several times a day.
Likewise spiritually we cannot grow without feeding on God's Word.
1 Peter 2:2 - As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.
2 Peter 3:18 - Grow in the grace and KNOWLEDGE of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Matthew 4:4 - Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.
[Eph. 4:15; Matt. 5:6]
B. To Get This Nourishment, We Must Study the Bible and Attend Church Meetings.
Scriptures show the need for regular nourishment.
Hebrews 5:11-14 - Christians were rebuked for not growing as they should have, because they had not studied. Time and again members fall away or are spiritual midgets because they do not eat properly.
Acts 17:11 - Bereans were able to determine whether truth was taught because they searched the Scriptures DAILY. We need REGULAR nourishment.
Psalm 1:1,2 - Meditate on God's word day and night. Children and adults need physical food regularly, and get very upset without it. But are we content to go for days at a time without feeding on God's word? [119:47,48,95-99; Josh 1:8]
Do we make use of the opportunities the church provides for nourishment? I never ceased to be amazed when the church provides a spiritual feast, and members choose to do other things. How often do we miss the regular meals provided for our bellies?
Take this test to check your spiritual nourishment.
How much time did you spend this week watching TV?
How much time watching sports or entertainment, or reading the paper, magazines, etc.?
How much time did you spend on some hobby or outside interest, that may not be immoral but is not necessary?
How many hours did you spend studying your Bible?
How many services of the church did you attend? How many did you miss that you could have attended?
Which do you nourish the best: your spirit or your body? Are you feeding your mind on God's word or pleasures?
Christians need regular nourishment from God's word to grow.
III. EXERCISE AND PRACTICE
A. Exercise and Practice Are Essential to Physical Development.
Athletes & musicians know they must exercise and practice to improve.
Developing skills requires continual repetition: playing a song, throwing pitches, shooting baskets.
Athletes run, lift weights, and practice hour after hour in order to grow strong and develop endurance.
Illustration: A man once had an apartment next to a professional cello player. He thought it must be exciting to play in an orchestra. Then he listened as the man practiced the scales, exercises, and songs endlessly.
Children practice skills over and over to learn them.
Children learning to walk try again and again. They are proud to learn a new word, then they use it till they drive you crazy! They want to play the same thing over and over: play the same tape recording, put the clothes on a doll.
Parents encourage children to repeat what they must learn: drill math facts, spelling, reading, piano. They get tired, but we encourage them because that's how they learn.
"Practice makes perfect" - or at least it promotes improvement.
B. Exercise and Practice Are Essential to Spiritual Growth.
Scriptures:
Hebrews 5:14 - Those who are of full age, by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Growth requires exercise as well as nourishment.
1 Timothy 4:7 - Exercise yourself toward godliness.
Like children, athletes, and musicians, we must work again and again at applying Bible principles to become effective in the Lord's work.
Applications:
To learn to TEACH, we must do it repeatedly: teach your children, home studies, Bible classes, preach sermons, again and again.
To learn to LEAD SINGING, practice songs at home, sing with your family, lead during church meetings over and over.
To understand the BIBLE, study it again and again, talk to others, drill yourself, memorize. Get in and dig.
To learn to PRAY, do it over and over.
Kids may not be good at activities at first, but parents encourage them to do it over and over. Likewise, older members must encourage the newer ones to use their talents. They may not be skilled at first, but they learn by doing.
We need to encourage teachers, preachers, and song leaders. Don't complain. Surely don't stay home. They need the practice!
IV. TIME AND PATIENCE
By definition, growth requires TIME. It is progress and development as time passes. Several important lessons follow:
A. Don't Expect to Reach Your Goal Overnight.
Children do not become full-grown instantaneously.
At birth they are so small you can hold them in a little basket. Soon they are outgrowing new clothes every month. Eventually they can wear their parents' clothes or even larger. But it takes time.
Sometimes children become impatient. "I can't wait till I'm 18 (or 21)." We say, "Take your time. It will come soon enough." Time passes and, sure enough, what they were waiting for has come and gone, and they're looking back wondering how the time passed so fast!
Likewise spiritually, do not expect maturity overnight.
James 1:4 - To become perfect and mature (entire), lacking nothing, we must have patience.
Some new-born Christians want to know everything and do everything right away. They may not be willing to take the TIME to STUDY and DEVELOP ability. Yet they want to be just like the mature members - and want other members to treat them with the same respect that they do mature members - before they have taken time to grow.
Sometimes older members are impatient with new members. We don't understand why new converts have trouble with some basic concepts. Then sometimes these new members explain, "I never was really taught what the BIBLE said before." They have no background in the Scriptures, and it takes TIME to grow.
Remember that people who may be mature today did not get that way overnight. It took years of study and practice. And new converts will not become mature overnight. It will take time.
New members should not get discouraged and give up. Older members should not be impatient or overly demanding. Remember how our children took time to grow, and how we had to show patience with their immature ways as they grew. But growth will come as long as people are trying and we give them time.
B. Don't Become Discouraged by Mistakes and Rebukes.
Children make many mistakes and must often be told they are wrong.
How often does a child fall while learning to walk? They fall again and again, gathering bumps and bruises. They spill their milk, don't hold their spoon properly, fall off their bikes, and come to bat in the bottom of the ninth with the winning run in scoring position and strike out.
Parents are continually correcting, instructing, and punishing, till we almost feel sorry for the kids. Growing up is tough!
If kids are going to become mature, they have to keep going in spite of mistakes and rebukes. And someday they will look back on their own childish mistakes and just smile.
Likewise, new converts will make many mistakes and must often be told they are wrong.
Some of the greatest Bible characters committed terrible errors and had to be rebuked.
* Moses made excuses when God called him to lead Israel out of bondage.
* David committed adultery with Bathsheeba and was rebuked by Nathan.
* Peter denied Jesus three times.
* Paul persecuted Christians before his conversion.
* Thomas doubted Jesus' resurrection.
* All the apostles forsook Jesus when He was arrested and crucified.
Matthew 16:21-23 - Shortly after he had confessed Jesus and been highly praised (v15-18), Peter contradicted Jesus and was severely rebuked.
Yet all of these are remembered as some of God's greatest servants.
Great servants are not people who live without ever sinning, but people who learn from their mistakes and go on to serve God faithfully.
Judas betrayed Jesus and is remembered as a traitor. Peter denied Jesus three times and is remembered as a great apostle. What is the difference? Judas, after betraying Jesus, hung himself. Peter, after denying Jesus, repented and went to work preaching the gospel.
Proverbs 29:1 - A person is destroyed, not simply because he errs, but because he becomes stubborn when he is rebuked and will not repent. What is needed is repentance and patience to learn to do right.
“The Great Commission” not “The Great Suggestion”
He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
Mark 16:15
Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
We have our orders from the top. Those orders are to share the Gospel (the news of saving faith in and through the blood of Jesus Christ).
Ok, so I’ve shared the good news with someone and led them to Christ – now what?
Finding the next step after someone receives salvation can seem harder than it should be. We know we want to plug them into a solid Bible believing church, but we also know growth takes intentionality. Sometimes, we are the ones providing this intentionality through mentoring a new, younger believer.
How should we disciple them?
We can keep these three tips in mind as we pray for the Lord to keep doing His work and as we keep doing our discipleship part.
1. Trust them with remembering.
Remembering what it was like when we first believed or were freshly growing in our faith can help get us into the discipleship mindset. If we start by sharing our story, it can help them open up about their life and show (potentially unexpected) areas where you can relate. But we must remind them to ultimately remember this: no matter if the road feels all uphill or if life seems like a series of successes: it is Christ who is ultimately at work both in and through us (Philippians 2:13). He is the One who will form us into the disciples He’s calling us to be, and it’s only through Him that we can keep living the Christian life (Romans 8:10). In discipleship conversations, urge them to remember this freeing reality that Christ is at work, can be depended on, and gives us all the strength we need—instead of us feeling overly guilty, frustrated, impatient, or prideful.
2. Teach them “but first.”
If we live our lives based only on what we’re feeling or how we react to situations we find ourselves in, we’re not always heading for a God-honoring existence. But, when we disciple, we need to equip others to do this: to renew their mind (Romans 12:2). Begin to show them practically how through the simple phrase: but first. When they are becoming discouraged, have them stop and tell themselves “but first.” Before they give into total discouragement, ask: “But first, what do I know about God?” or “But first, what is true?” or “But first, what would the Bible have to say in this situation?” This simple tip to renew their mind can help them keep actively seeking Christ and His kingdom.
3. Turn them to mission.
As a new believer, it is tempting to get hyper-focused on “my personal relationship with Jesus.” This is hugely important! However, we can forget the next step: taking action to live like Jesus lived. And what do we find Him doing? He was about His Father’s business, and He loved, sacrificed, and served. We, too, then, should make sure that we and those we disciple are plugged into loving service. As you engage with discipleship conversations, challenge the new believer to find ways to get involved in giving. This could be at their church or simply in relationships they already have. Ask them to think about ways to invest in the community around them and then make sure you follow up in a cadence of accountability.
One conversation at a time, we disciple.
No matter the resources and tips that aid you in your journey, remember to not give up. This is eternal work. Allow God to work by his Spirit in a person’s life.
I want to introduce you to the Holy Spirit, who the Bible says actually lives inside of you. That can seem like a pretty crazy thought!
So, who is the Holy Spirit, and what’s His role in your spiritual journey? Some people think of Him as a ghost or an impersonal force that we can somehow tap into to get power. But that’s not what He is like. He’s a person we can listen to and get to know and draw strength from. Just like Jesus and God the Father, He is God.
When you committed your life to Jesus, you didn’t become strong. Rather, you gained access to someone with unlimited strength — the Holy Spirit, who offers you help every single day.
You’ve probably felt frustrated or even helpless at times when you’ve tried to kick a bad habit or fix a relationship problem. The truth is: we are powerless to fix our sinful habits and truly love others unconditionally. We need the Holy Spirit’s help to live a life of unconditional love like Jesus did.
1. KNOW THAT YOU'RE FORGIVEN
You are no longer condemned. You are forgiven! You are His child. You can make a new start every time you sin... just sincerely confess it and ask God to change you from the inside out. Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." If you have repeatedly fallen into the same sin such as pornography, lying, unforgiveness, substance abuse, gossiping, etc., then go to your pastor, a mentor, or a Christian counselor and ask for their guidance, prayer, and instruction on how to stay strong when you're tempted to sin.
2. PRAY TO BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT
Forgiveness can seem like an impossible task if you're trying to do it all on your own. Fortunately, the Holy Spirit is always with us, ready to empower us and guide us to do the things God has for us. Learn how to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
There’s something different about you! Actually, a lot has changed. Now, before you start bringing up a list of things you still struggle with, hear me out:
Here’s what’s new about you:
You are totally forgiven (Colossians 1:13-14).
You are now a member of God’s family (Romans 8:15).
You now have the Holy Spirit living inside of you (1 Corinthians 6:19).
You are a friend of God (John 15:15).
You have the promise of being with God in heaven forever (2 Corinthians 5:1).
God isn’t angry with you. Jesus was punished for your sins instead of you (Romans 3:25).
God is leading you into a wonderful, joy-filled future (1 Corinthians 2:9; Jeremiah 29:11).
When you fall into sin, you can turn back to God and He’ll be right there to pick you up again because He has promised to never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).
God has begun the process of making you more like Jesus. He is now patiently teaching and shaping you to love others unconditionally (2 Corinthians 3:18; John 15:5).
He promises to bring good even out of the painful situations you’ve been through or will go through (Romans 8:28).
A lot has changed about you!
But, as you know, some things haven't changed. You still have struggles. You won’t always follow God perfectly and you will have doubts and challenges along the way. The Holy Spirit is shaping you to be more like Jesus, but it’s a lifelong process for every one of His followers.
But take heart: God is on your side! "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)
1. PRACTICE SPIRITUAL BREATHING
Just as you need to constantly breathe physically, you need to breathe spiritually, too. You could try spiritual breathing to rely on the Holy Spirit by faith throughout your day. When you realize you’ve sinned, or when temptation, stress or doubt weighs on your mind, you can…
Exhale: Admit your sin to God—no excuses—take full responsibility for your mistake and resolve not to repeat it. Let go of worry, fear or self-reliance.
Inhale: Rely on God to fill you by His Spirit. Receive His hope, confidence, forgiveness and power to make better choices.
“Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18, NIV).
“Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives” (Galatians 5:25, NLT).
2. SPEND TIME WITH GOD
If you haven’t already, set aside a time and place for daily personal Bible study and prayer. A good book to begin with is John. As you read, underline verses you find particularly meaningful. Pray and ask God to show you who He is and how you can respond to Him.
I want to introduce you to the Holy Spirit, who the Bible says actually lives inside of you. That can seem like a pretty crazy thought!
So, who is the Holy Spirit, and what’s His role in your spiritual journey? Some people think of Him as a ghost or an impersonal force that we can somehow tap into to get power. But that’s not what He is like. He’s a person we can listen to and get to know and draw strength from. Just like Jesus and God the Father, He is God.
When you committed your life to Jesus, you didn’t become strong. Rather, you gained access to someone with unlimited strength — the Holy Spirit, who offers you help every single day.
You’ve probably felt frustrated or even helpless at times when you’ve tried to kick a bad habit or fix a relationship problem. The truth is: we are powerless to fix our sinful habits and truly love others unconditionally. We need the Holy Spirit’s help to live a life of unconditional love like Jesus did.
1. KNOW THAT YOU'RE FORGIVEN
You are no longer condemned. You are forgiven! You are His child. You can make a new start every time you sin... just sincerely confess it and ask God to change you from the inside out. Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." If you have repeatedly fallen into the same sin such as pornography, lying, unforgiveness, substance abuse, gossiping, etc., then go to your pastor, a mentor, or a Christian counselor and ask for their guidance, prayer, and instruction on how to stay strong when you're tempted to sin.
2. PRAY TO BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT
Forgiveness can seem like an impossible task if you're trying to do it all on your own. Fortunately, the Holy Spirit is always with us, ready to empower us and guide us to do the things God has for us. Learn how to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
There’s something different about you! Actually, a lot has changed. Now, before you start bringing up a list of things you still struggle with, hear me out:
Here’s what’s new about you:
You are totally forgiven (Colossians 1:13-14).
You are now a member of God’s family (Romans 8:15).
You now have the Holy Spirit living inside of you (1 Corinthians 6:19).
You are a friend of God (John 15:15).
You have the promise of being with God in heaven forever (2 Corinthians 5:1).
God isn’t angry with you. Jesus was punished for your sins instead of you (Romans 3:25).
God is leading you into a wonderful, joy-filled future (1 Corinthians 2:9; Jeremiah 29:11).
When you fall into sin, you can turn back to God and He’ll be right there to pick you up again because He has promised to never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).
God has begun the process of making you more like Jesus. He is now patiently teaching and shaping you to love others unconditionally (2 Corinthians 3:18; John 15:5).
He promises to bring good even out of the painful situations you’ve been through or will go through (Romans 8:28).
A lot has changed about you!
But, as you know, some things haven't changed. You still have struggles. You won’t always follow God perfectly and you will have doubts and challenges along the way. The Holy Spirit is shaping you to be more like Jesus, but it’s a lifelong process for every one of His followers.
But take heart: God is on your side! "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)
1. PRACTICE SPIRITUAL BREATHING
Just as you need to constantly breathe physically, you need to breathe spiritually, too. You could try spiritual breathing to rely on the Holy Spirit by faith throughout your day. When you realize you’ve sinned, or when temptation, stress or doubt weighs on your mind, you can…
Exhale: Admit your sin to God—no excuses—take full responsibility for your mistake and resolve not to repeat it. Let go of worry, fear or self-reliance.
Inhale: Rely on God to fill you by His Spirit. Receive His hope, confidence, forgiveness and power to make better choices.
“Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18, NIV).
“Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives” (Galatians 5:25, NLT).
2. SPEND TIME WITH GOD
If you haven’t already, set aside a time and place for daily personal Bible study and prayer. A good book to begin with is John. As you read, underline verses you find particularly meaningful. Pray and ask God to show you who He is and how you can respond to Him.
The music was loud. The place was jumping. Neither Drew nor Kelli was into the church thing, but they were having a blast at the concert they were attending with their friend Grace. So when the band's lead singer got up to talk about Jesus, they were both more interested in listening than they'd ever been before. He talked about this "God with skin" who came to earth to make the ultimate sacrifice for the people He loves. Even in the crowded auditorium, both Drew and Kelli felt as though the guy was talking straight to them. At the end of the concert, they both stood up and prayed a prayer like this:
Dear God, I understand and believe that I have failed to love You by going my own way in life. I've missed the mark. I have done and thought wrong things. I want to change. My sin has earned death for me. But You sent your Son, Jesus, to die in my place. I receive this gift by believing that Jesus' death is sufficient to cancel out my sin. I want to receive Your gift of eternal life and begin a relationship with You. Amen.
One year later, Drew was still attending church with Grace. He noticed that he no longer had the desire to do some of the things he used to because they seemed unfulfilling. Sure, he still messed up at times, but he loved knowing that he could always turn to Jesus and ask for forgiveness. He was sure he'd found a new lifestyle that would last until the end of his days.
On the other hand, Kelli's faith had pretty much fizzled out. She looked back on the concert experience as an emotional high that really didn't mean anything. Yeah, God might exist, she thought, but He really doesn't have anything to do with my everyday life.
What About You?
Since you're reading this, chances are you have prayed a prayer similar to the one Drew and Kelli prayed. You made a decision to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. That may have been years or just a few minutes ago. Now you may be wondering what comes next, what you should be doing and what your decision really means. And, most important, you want to know how you can end up like Drew instead of Kelli.
If these questions are on your mind, there are a few things you gotta know. Life as a Christian is a cool paradox. On one hand, it's so complex that it will take the rest of your life to unravel. On the other hand, God gives us simple ways to start living the kind of full life He wants us to live. That's where we're going to start — with the basics:
Know who you are "in Christ."
Learn from God's Word, the Bible.
Keep the communication lines open — pray!
Get hooked up with other believers.
Don't let doubt get you down.
In Christ
First things first. Let's talk about the new relationship you have — with the Creator of the universe! The Bible has a lot to say about where you stand now in relation to God.
God is the Potter. We are the clay (Isaiah 64:8). Like a skilled artist, God has a perfect plan for what He wants us to be. Right now, we may be lifeless lumps of clay, but He can envision the beautiful, useful vessels we will become. Of course, it will take a lot of pinching and shaping, pressing, pulling and even breaking to get us there.
God is the Master. We are His servants (Luke 12:14-21; James 1:1). No matter who or what was running our lives before we accepted Christ, we have a new master now. God calls the shots. And while the idea of having a master is definitely not a popular one, it's a huge and exciting mystery of the Christian life. Why? Because having Jesus as a master actually sets us free (John 8:32-36; Romans 6:17-23).
God is a friend (Exodus 33:11; John 15:13-16). It used to be pretty rare for God to talk to people as a friend. Because He is perfect, very few men could look stand looking at His holiness. But once Jesus came to earth as both God and man, things changed. Jesus told His followers that He considered them His friends, and the same thing applies to us once we decide to follow Him.
God is the Father. We are His children (Matthew 6:32; Luke 11:13; Romans 8:14-16; Hebrews 12: 5-11). This is a pretty tough concept for a lot of people today, because so many of us have been hurt or neglected by our earthly fathers. But God is a perfect Father. He provides for us, protects us and cares for us. He also disciplines us, but He always does it out of love.
Jesus is the Bridegroom. Together we are His Bride (John 3:29; Ephesians 5:25-32; Revelation 21:9). This is one of the most amazing pictures of intimacy ever. He knows every part of us — even our deepest secrets — and He loves us anyway. One day He will take us to be with Him. The Bible compares that day to a great wedding celebration. Hopefully, you can see what an unbelievable relationship you've embarked on. And there's so much more than that. The Bible often describes our new life as being "in Christ." Here are just a few more things you'll want to know about that life:
You have been specially chosen by God (John 15:16; Ephesians 1:11).
You were once spiritually dead, but now you're alive (Ephesians 2:5).
You are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Your sins are forgiven (Acts 10:43).
You don't have to be trapped by sin ever again (Romans 6:6-7).
You appear blemish-free in God's sight (Colossians 1:22).
You are meant to have the fullest kind of life (John 10:10).
You are an overcomer who can never again be separated from God's love (Romans 8:35-39).
You have God's Holy Spirit living inside you to give you wisdom, guidance, comfort and help (John 14:16-17; 16:13; 1 Corinthians 6:19).
You can count on living forever with God in a new earth (John 14:2-3; Revelation 21:1).
The Book That Has It All
Now that you know a little more about your new life, you may be wondering, "Okay, but what am I supposed to do now?" A good place to start is with the Bible: our map, compass and handbook for living life God's way. You probably noticed all those odd names and numbers in the last section. They're called Scripture references — a way to help you find stuff in the Bible. If you're not already familiar with how to use them, ask someone to explain. It's an important skill to learn for navigating a Book you'll want to become very familiar with.
If you didn't grow up being involved in a church and reading the Bible (or even if you did), you might have some questions about how reliable the Bible is, and what it's good for. Some people think it's a book of myths or moral sayings that are no different, say, from the Quran. Here are some Bible basics:
— The Bible is the only written Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). If this sounds like an exclusive statement, that's because it is. And it's pretty hard to swallow in a world that detests exclusivity. But it's true, and it's important for many reasons. After all, how can you have a relationship with God if you don't know Him? The Bible is the best place to discover the mind and heart of our loving God.
— Everything the Bible says is true. The Bible is not just good for information about spiritual things. Everything it tells us about the history of our world and the life of Jesus is really true. You can count on it!
— Getting to know the Bible is one of the best things we can do to help our faith grow (Psalm 119:9-16; Romans 15:4). The Bible is more than a list of rules. It's the story of how God created us, loves us and communicates with us. It reveals God's plan for our lives, His laws and His promises. So reading the Bible is the best possible way to find out what that plan is and jump on board with it.
What does this all mean? Simply that it's a good idea to read at least a little bit of the Bible every day. Worried that you'll get bored and fizzle out? That's a legitimate concern. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid this. The first help is already inside you. Take a glance back at the list of things you have in Christ. That one about the Holy Spirit living in you puts a whole new spin on Bible reading. See, one of the Holy Spirit's jobs is to help us to understand the Scriptures. He makes them come alive in a whole new way.
Besides that, there are lots of resources — books, DVDs, etc. — to walk you through the Bible. Most will give you a passage to read from the Bible, then offer a short story or a few paragraphs on how the Scripture applies to your life. Ask a youth leader or a Christian friend to suggest a good guide for you. And once you get started, the most important thing is to stick with it. Don't worry about keeping a rigid schedule. Instead, try to let God's words penetrate your heart and mind. Learn all the truth you can, then ask God how you can incorporate it into your life.
Which brings us to the next point. You can't ask God anything if you don't talk to Him. Another essential step in your new life is prayer, or communication with God.
Talking to God
Here are some truths about prayer:
Praying to God is not like talking to the air. He is near, and He hears us.
God is real and answers prayer to glorify himself.
Prayer goes hand in hand with turning away from wrong and doing right. We can't just say the right things; we've got to follow them with action.
It's okay to tell God when we don't hear, feel or understand Him.
We can pray in the most impossible situations.
Prayer shouldn't be a show-offy thing but is just talking to God.
Jesus gave us a couple of examples on how to pray.
If we pray for stuff that lines up with God's will, He will do it.
We should pray even when we don't know what to say, and the Holy Spirit will help.
We must keep praying even when we don't feel like it.
Prayer is a great alternative to worrying.
It's important to tell God when you've sinned, and to stop. He will always forgive you.
If you're still wondering how to pray, the answer is simple: Just start talking. Prayer is having a conversation with God. You can tell Him anything. Seriously. Your doubts, your worries, your fears, your hopes. Tell Him how good He is. Thank Him for what He's done in your life. Ask him for things you need. Confess when you've done wrong. You don't have to use special words. Just talk to Him!
Like any conversation, prayer is a two-way street. Take time to be silent and listen. At first it might seem strange, but God can (and does) speak to you in the stillness of your mind and heart. He also answers through His Word, through circumstances and through other people. Just remember that God will never tell you — through your heart or your friends — anything that contradicts what's in the Bible.
The Body of Christ
By now, you're probably overwhelmed with all this new information. Wondering how to keep your head above water? Try this: Tell someone about your decision to follow Christ. What difference could that make? Actually, lots. First, there's something about announcing big news to friends and family that can make it seem more solid in your own mind. Second, it's the doorway into a network of relationships called the "church."
Now, wait a minute, you may be thinking. Been there. Done that. No way I'll ever go near a church again. Fair enough. Lots of people have been burned — or bored — by previous church experiences. But talking about a particular building on a particular corner misses the point. Let's start by thinking about "church" in a general sense.
The church is all people everywhere who have been saved from sin by Jesus Christ. You probably happen to live close to a certain group of those people, so they're the ones you're most likely to see and relate to on a regular basis. Through its stories and letters, the Bible gives us an idea of what relationships among those people should look like. Check out these basics:
We should share with each other and provide for one another (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32).
We should be most concerned about teaching the Bible, building deep relationships, remembering Jesus' sacrifice and praying (Acts 2:42).
Sure, we will mess up and hurt each other, but God has provided a specific way to handle those conflicts (Matthew 18:15-17).
When we settle fights, we should look different from the world. We should love each other and give up our rights for each other (1 Corinthians 6:1-8).
When we're unified, we show the world a better picture of God (John 17:23).
We should strive to do good to each other (Galatians 6:10).
Loving one another is the ultimate goal (1 John 4:7-12).
Now, you're thinking, Yeah right. No church I've been part of has looked like that. It's true — the Bible gives us lots of great examples of what the church is supposed to look like, but because we're human, we rarely follow His directions perfectly. But that's no reason to give up on the church. Look hard enough and you'll find pockets of people who are doing a pretty good job in some of these areas. Once you find them, join them. Get involved in a church where the Bible is taught, God is worshiped and people treat each other right. Besides growing stronger in prayer and in your knowledge of the Bible, here are a few faith-builders that spring from being part of a good church:
Support — You'll find people who love you and who have dealt with some of the same issues you're dealing with. The race of life is a lot easier to run when you've got others running with you to encourage you.
Accountability — This means that when you've got stuff to work on, someone will (lovingly) kick you in the pants until you get it right. If you've got sin habits still hanging on from your pre-Christ days, search your church for a trustworthy friend who can help you ditch them.
A place that fits you — Another name for the church is "the body of Christ." In other words, each of us is a body part — we all have a different job and we all work together. Check out 1 Corinthians 12 for some encouragement about finding your place and using your gifts.
That's not to say that being a part of the body is always easy. No local church will be perfect. But as one word picture explains it, if a boat has a hole, you'll do more good if you jump in and help bail water than if you stand on the dock and criticize the sailors. If you don't like what you see in the church, get involved — start following Jesus' instructions yourself and see what a difference it can make.
Doubt: The Faith Muncher
If it hasn't happened already, it will. You'll be walking home from school. Or sitting at the dinner table. Or hangin' at the mall. And it will hit you . . . What if this God thing isn't for real? What if religion is something we humans made up just to make ourselves feel better? What if I blow it and do something to make God stop loving me?
Doubts are nagging thoughts that threaten to ambush your faith. Every Christian has them from time to time, but when doubt happens to you, it can make you feel as though you're the only person on earth who's ever experienced it. For some people, the doubts are too much, and they turn away from Jesus. But it doesn't have to be that way.
One of the most helpful things to remember when you start to doubt is, as one wise man put it, "Nothing is going to jump out from under a rock and eat God." What in the world does that mean? Just this: God always has answers big enough for every question we come up with. No matter how big and dark and scary your question is, and no matter what out-of-the-way rock you have to turn over to find the answer, you're not going to find anything that disproves God's existence. Or His power. Or His goodness. Ever. That fact is what gives Christians their deep peace. God will always be bigger than any of our doubts.
This may come as a surprise, but doubt can actually be a big help in our Christian life. Why? Because it forces us to dig for answers. And every time we can replace a difficult question with a solid answer, it makes our faith stronger. Here are a few things you can do when you feel doubt creeping up on you.
First, don't let it scare you. Remember you're not alone. Everyone has doubts. And more than that, when you accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, you entered into a relationship with the Source of all love. The Bible says that "perfect love drives out fear" (1 John 4:18). You can hold on to that promise.
Second, engage your brain. A popular misconception is that Christianity is for the brainless and that if Christians were ever to take a hard look at the facts, our faith would crumble. Not so! God gave us our minds and wants us to use them. And here's the cool thing — no real facts will ever contradict our faith. Sometimes, all it takes is a little digging to uncover the answer to a mystery that had threatened to crash your faith.
Of course, at other times our rational minds can't grasp what God says or what life throws at us. In those cases, we have to be satisfied to wait and trust in God. Eventually, everything will come clear, and everything will line up with His Word. You can count on it.
Seeing Life Through New Glasses
Hopefully, you're starting to see that Christianity is more than just trying to do the right things and waiting to go to heaven someday. Sure, those things are a part of our faith, but there's so much more to it than that.
Becoming a Christian is like putting on a new pair of glasses. Suddenly, you're seeing things in a way you didn't before. Things that never made sense start to come clear. Other things — the ones you thought you had figured out — well, maybe you have to rethink them entirely. That's because becoming a Christian means living life under new management — God's. It means giving up some things, and that may be painful. But it also means gaining a new depth of joy and meaning in life. It means having a sense of purpose that stretches beyond time into eternity.
Whether you realize it or not, you've embarked on a journey that is big enough to consume the rest of your life! God is good, and His plan for you is so big that there's no chance you'll ever reach its limits. In fact, you won't even be able to see the end of it until He makes you complete at the resurrection of believers.
Keep Puttin' One Foot in Front of the Other
Looking at a journey that immense can be dumbfounding. Where should you begin? Glad you asked. Just pick up your right foot. Or your left one — it doesn't matter. Now stick it out in front of you. And put it down again. It's that simple. One step at a time, the Christian walk will take you from here to eternity. From brokenness to wholeness. From weakness to perfection. Your job is to keep your eyes on Jesus, obey Him completely and follow His path.
Your journey will take you around corners and down alleys you never expected. You may look back in five years and wonder if you're even the same person. Sometimes the way will be dark and scary, and you may feel like quitting. No matter what, keep taking one step at a time.
One day, you'll reach the finish line, and your journey will end on a height you never imagined. And finally, you'll look into the face of the loving Savior who died for you and hear Him say, "Welcome home."
Dear God, I understand and believe that I have failed to love You by going my own way in life. I've missed the mark. I have done and thought wrong things. I want to change. My sin has earned death for me. But You sent your Son, Jesus, to die in my place. I receive this gift by believing that Jesus' death is sufficient to cancel out my sin. I want to receive Your gift of eternal life and begin a relationship with You. Amen.
One year later, Drew was still attending church with Grace. He noticed that he no longer had the desire to do some of the things he used to because they seemed unfulfilling. Sure, he still messed up at times, but he loved knowing that he could always turn to Jesus and ask for forgiveness. He was sure he'd found a new lifestyle that would last until the end of his days.
On the other hand, Kelli's faith had pretty much fizzled out. She looked back on the concert experience as an emotional high that really didn't mean anything. Yeah, God might exist, she thought, but He really doesn't have anything to do with my everyday life.
What About You?
Since you're reading this, chances are you have prayed a prayer similar to the one Drew and Kelli prayed. You made a decision to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. That may have been years or just a few minutes ago. Now you may be wondering what comes next, what you should be doing and what your decision really means. And, most important, you want to know how you can end up like Drew instead of Kelli.
If these questions are on your mind, there are a few things you gotta know. Life as a Christian is a cool paradox. On one hand, it's so complex that it will take the rest of your life to unravel. On the other hand, God gives us simple ways to start living the kind of full life He wants us to live. That's where we're going to start — with the basics:
Know who you are "in Christ."
Learn from God's Word, the Bible.
Keep the communication lines open — pray!
Get hooked up with other believers.
Don't let doubt get you down.
In Christ
First things first. Let's talk about the new relationship you have — with the Creator of the universe! The Bible has a lot to say about where you stand now in relation to God.
God is the Potter. We are the clay (Isaiah 64:8). Like a skilled artist, God has a perfect plan for what He wants us to be. Right now, we may be lifeless lumps of clay, but He can envision the beautiful, useful vessels we will become. Of course, it will take a lot of pinching and shaping, pressing, pulling and even breaking to get us there.
God is the Master. We are His servants (Luke 12:14-21; James 1:1). No matter who or what was running our lives before we accepted Christ, we have a new master now. God calls the shots. And while the idea of having a master is definitely not a popular one, it's a huge and exciting mystery of the Christian life. Why? Because having Jesus as a master actually sets us free (John 8:32-36; Romans 6:17-23).
God is a friend (Exodus 33:11; John 15:13-16). It used to be pretty rare for God to talk to people as a friend. Because He is perfect, very few men could look stand looking at His holiness. But once Jesus came to earth as both God and man, things changed. Jesus told His followers that He considered them His friends, and the same thing applies to us once we decide to follow Him.
God is the Father. We are His children (Matthew 6:32; Luke 11:13; Romans 8:14-16; Hebrews 12: 5-11). This is a pretty tough concept for a lot of people today, because so many of us have been hurt or neglected by our earthly fathers. But God is a perfect Father. He provides for us, protects us and cares for us. He also disciplines us, but He always does it out of love.
Jesus is the Bridegroom. Together we are His Bride (John 3:29; Ephesians 5:25-32; Revelation 21:9). This is one of the most amazing pictures of intimacy ever. He knows every part of us — even our deepest secrets — and He loves us anyway. One day He will take us to be with Him. The Bible compares that day to a great wedding celebration. Hopefully, you can see what an unbelievable relationship you've embarked on. And there's so much more than that. The Bible often describes our new life as being "in Christ." Here are just a few more things you'll want to know about that life:
You have been specially chosen by God (John 15:16; Ephesians 1:11).
You were once spiritually dead, but now you're alive (Ephesians 2:5).
You are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Your sins are forgiven (Acts 10:43).
You don't have to be trapped by sin ever again (Romans 6:6-7).
You appear blemish-free in God's sight (Colossians 1:22).
You are meant to have the fullest kind of life (John 10:10).
You are an overcomer who can never again be separated from God's love (Romans 8:35-39).
You have God's Holy Spirit living inside you to give you wisdom, guidance, comfort and help (John 14:16-17; 16:13; 1 Corinthians 6:19).
You can count on living forever with God in a new earth (John 14:2-3; Revelation 21:1).
The Book That Has It All
Now that you know a little more about your new life, you may be wondering, "Okay, but what am I supposed to do now?" A good place to start is with the Bible: our map, compass and handbook for living life God's way. You probably noticed all those odd names and numbers in the last section. They're called Scripture references — a way to help you find stuff in the Bible. If you're not already familiar with how to use them, ask someone to explain. It's an important skill to learn for navigating a Book you'll want to become very familiar with.
If you didn't grow up being involved in a church and reading the Bible (or even if you did), you might have some questions about how reliable the Bible is, and what it's good for. Some people think it's a book of myths or moral sayings that are no different, say, from the Quran. Here are some Bible basics:
— The Bible is the only written Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). If this sounds like an exclusive statement, that's because it is. And it's pretty hard to swallow in a world that detests exclusivity. But it's true, and it's important for many reasons. After all, how can you have a relationship with God if you don't know Him? The Bible is the best place to discover the mind and heart of our loving God.
— Everything the Bible says is true. The Bible is not just good for information about spiritual things. Everything it tells us about the history of our world and the life of Jesus is really true. You can count on it!
— Getting to know the Bible is one of the best things we can do to help our faith grow (Psalm 119:9-16; Romans 15:4). The Bible is more than a list of rules. It's the story of how God created us, loves us and communicates with us. It reveals God's plan for our lives, His laws and His promises. So reading the Bible is the best possible way to find out what that plan is and jump on board with it.
What does this all mean? Simply that it's a good idea to read at least a little bit of the Bible every day. Worried that you'll get bored and fizzle out? That's a legitimate concern. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid this. The first help is already inside you. Take a glance back at the list of things you have in Christ. That one about the Holy Spirit living in you puts a whole new spin on Bible reading. See, one of the Holy Spirit's jobs is to help us to understand the Scriptures. He makes them come alive in a whole new way.
Besides that, there are lots of resources — books, DVDs, etc. — to walk you through the Bible. Most will give you a passage to read from the Bible, then offer a short story or a few paragraphs on how the Scripture applies to your life. Ask a youth leader or a Christian friend to suggest a good guide for you. And once you get started, the most important thing is to stick with it. Don't worry about keeping a rigid schedule. Instead, try to let God's words penetrate your heart and mind. Learn all the truth you can, then ask God how you can incorporate it into your life.
Which brings us to the next point. You can't ask God anything if you don't talk to Him. Another essential step in your new life is prayer, or communication with God.
Talking to God
Here are some truths about prayer:
Praying to God is not like talking to the air. He is near, and He hears us.
God is real and answers prayer to glorify himself.
Prayer goes hand in hand with turning away from wrong and doing right. We can't just say the right things; we've got to follow them with action.
It's okay to tell God when we don't hear, feel or understand Him.
We can pray in the most impossible situations.
Prayer shouldn't be a show-offy thing but is just talking to God.
Jesus gave us a couple of examples on how to pray.
If we pray for stuff that lines up with God's will, He will do it.
We should pray even when we don't know what to say, and the Holy Spirit will help.
We must keep praying even when we don't feel like it.
Prayer is a great alternative to worrying.
It's important to tell God when you've sinned, and to stop. He will always forgive you.
If you're still wondering how to pray, the answer is simple: Just start talking. Prayer is having a conversation with God. You can tell Him anything. Seriously. Your doubts, your worries, your fears, your hopes. Tell Him how good He is. Thank Him for what He's done in your life. Ask him for things you need. Confess when you've done wrong. You don't have to use special words. Just talk to Him!
Like any conversation, prayer is a two-way street. Take time to be silent and listen. At first it might seem strange, but God can (and does) speak to you in the stillness of your mind and heart. He also answers through His Word, through circumstances and through other people. Just remember that God will never tell you — through your heart or your friends — anything that contradicts what's in the Bible.
The Body of Christ
By now, you're probably overwhelmed with all this new information. Wondering how to keep your head above water? Try this: Tell someone about your decision to follow Christ. What difference could that make? Actually, lots. First, there's something about announcing big news to friends and family that can make it seem more solid in your own mind. Second, it's the doorway into a network of relationships called the "church."
Now, wait a minute, you may be thinking. Been there. Done that. No way I'll ever go near a church again. Fair enough. Lots of people have been burned — or bored — by previous church experiences. But talking about a particular building on a particular corner misses the point. Let's start by thinking about "church" in a general sense.
The church is all people everywhere who have been saved from sin by Jesus Christ. You probably happen to live close to a certain group of those people, so they're the ones you're most likely to see and relate to on a regular basis. Through its stories and letters, the Bible gives us an idea of what relationships among those people should look like. Check out these basics:
We should share with each other and provide for one another (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32).
We should be most concerned about teaching the Bible, building deep relationships, remembering Jesus' sacrifice and praying (Acts 2:42).
Sure, we will mess up and hurt each other, but God has provided a specific way to handle those conflicts (Matthew 18:15-17).
When we settle fights, we should look different from the world. We should love each other and give up our rights for each other (1 Corinthians 6:1-8).
When we're unified, we show the world a better picture of God (John 17:23).
We should strive to do good to each other (Galatians 6:10).
Loving one another is the ultimate goal (1 John 4:7-12).
Now, you're thinking, Yeah right. No church I've been part of has looked like that. It's true — the Bible gives us lots of great examples of what the church is supposed to look like, but because we're human, we rarely follow His directions perfectly. But that's no reason to give up on the church. Look hard enough and you'll find pockets of people who are doing a pretty good job in some of these areas. Once you find them, join them. Get involved in a church where the Bible is taught, God is worshiped and people treat each other right. Besides growing stronger in prayer and in your knowledge of the Bible, here are a few faith-builders that spring from being part of a good church:
Support — You'll find people who love you and who have dealt with some of the same issues you're dealing with. The race of life is a lot easier to run when you've got others running with you to encourage you.
Accountability — This means that when you've got stuff to work on, someone will (lovingly) kick you in the pants until you get it right. If you've got sin habits still hanging on from your pre-Christ days, search your church for a trustworthy friend who can help you ditch them.
A place that fits you — Another name for the church is "the body of Christ." In other words, each of us is a body part — we all have a different job and we all work together. Check out 1 Corinthians 12 for some encouragement about finding your place and using your gifts.
That's not to say that being a part of the body is always easy. No local church will be perfect. But as one word picture explains it, if a boat has a hole, you'll do more good if you jump in and help bail water than if you stand on the dock and criticize the sailors. If you don't like what you see in the church, get involved — start following Jesus' instructions yourself and see what a difference it can make.
Doubt: The Faith Muncher
If it hasn't happened already, it will. You'll be walking home from school. Or sitting at the dinner table. Or hangin' at the mall. And it will hit you . . . What if this God thing isn't for real? What if religion is something we humans made up just to make ourselves feel better? What if I blow it and do something to make God stop loving me?
Doubts are nagging thoughts that threaten to ambush your faith. Every Christian has them from time to time, but when doubt happens to you, it can make you feel as though you're the only person on earth who's ever experienced it. For some people, the doubts are too much, and they turn away from Jesus. But it doesn't have to be that way.
One of the most helpful things to remember when you start to doubt is, as one wise man put it, "Nothing is going to jump out from under a rock and eat God." What in the world does that mean? Just this: God always has answers big enough for every question we come up with. No matter how big and dark and scary your question is, and no matter what out-of-the-way rock you have to turn over to find the answer, you're not going to find anything that disproves God's existence. Or His power. Or His goodness. Ever. That fact is what gives Christians their deep peace. God will always be bigger than any of our doubts.
This may come as a surprise, but doubt can actually be a big help in our Christian life. Why? Because it forces us to dig for answers. And every time we can replace a difficult question with a solid answer, it makes our faith stronger. Here are a few things you can do when you feel doubt creeping up on you.
First, don't let it scare you. Remember you're not alone. Everyone has doubts. And more than that, when you accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, you entered into a relationship with the Source of all love. The Bible says that "perfect love drives out fear" (1 John 4:18). You can hold on to that promise.
Second, engage your brain. A popular misconception is that Christianity is for the brainless and that if Christians were ever to take a hard look at the facts, our faith would crumble. Not so! God gave us our minds and wants us to use them. And here's the cool thing — no real facts will ever contradict our faith. Sometimes, all it takes is a little digging to uncover the answer to a mystery that had threatened to crash your faith.
Of course, at other times our rational minds can't grasp what God says or what life throws at us. In those cases, we have to be satisfied to wait and trust in God. Eventually, everything will come clear, and everything will line up with His Word. You can count on it.
Seeing Life Through New Glasses
Hopefully, you're starting to see that Christianity is more than just trying to do the right things and waiting to go to heaven someday. Sure, those things are a part of our faith, but there's so much more to it than that.
Becoming a Christian is like putting on a new pair of glasses. Suddenly, you're seeing things in a way you didn't before. Things that never made sense start to come clear. Other things — the ones you thought you had figured out — well, maybe you have to rethink them entirely. That's because becoming a Christian means living life under new management — God's. It means giving up some things, and that may be painful. But it also means gaining a new depth of joy and meaning in life. It means having a sense of purpose that stretches beyond time into eternity.
Whether you realize it or not, you've embarked on a journey that is big enough to consume the rest of your life! God is good, and His plan for you is so big that there's no chance you'll ever reach its limits. In fact, you won't even be able to see the end of it until He makes you complete at the resurrection of believers.
Keep Puttin' One Foot in Front of the Other
Looking at a journey that immense can be dumbfounding. Where should you begin? Glad you asked. Just pick up your right foot. Or your left one — it doesn't matter. Now stick it out in front of you. And put it down again. It's that simple. One step at a time, the Christian walk will take you from here to eternity. From brokenness to wholeness. From weakness to perfection. Your job is to keep your eyes on Jesus, obey Him completely and follow His path.
Your journey will take you around corners and down alleys you never expected. You may look back in five years and wonder if you're even the same person. Sometimes the way will be dark and scary, and you may feel like quitting. No matter what, keep taking one step at a time.
One day, you'll reach the finish line, and your journey will end on a height you never imagined. And finally, you'll look into the face of the loving Savior who died for you and hear Him say, "Welcome home."
It's not only important to read God's Word on a daily basis, we need to get it in our hearts and allow it to take root. Click on the picture below and discover this amazing Scripture memorization tool.
The Bible is the most amazing book. It is more than a book actually; it is a visible form of God Himself. The Bible is truly supernatural. In the same way that a person cannot just see God, a person cannot just see God in the Bible. It is required that you earnestly seek him out in faith, with all of your heart.
Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Top 6 excuses for not reading the Bible
1. “It's going to take too much effort, and I'm tired.”
Yes. The Bible DOES take some effort to study. For example, if you simply open to the book of Joel, you may get confused. It's going to take some time to get out a study Bible or fire up a helpful Bible application like logos. BUT IT'S WORTH IT.
It's like digging for gold. You have to get some tools together. You have to sweat a little bit. But you get GOLD.
2. “It's going to take too much time, and I'm busy.”
There are times when it's necessary to read God's Word for an extended period of time. There is however, a myth that's floating around in your head that unless you read for an hour it's not beneficial. This is just false.
Take Psalm 103 for example. It takes less than 5 minutes to read but it is PACKED with beneficial reminders. OR, take the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000. You can read that in no time at all, and it will be very fulfilling. The truth is, it's ok to read a small portion of God's Word or just spend a few minutes in his presence. There is no time limit either way.
Think about your relationship with your best friend. Sometimes, you will talk for hours and other times you text.
I think in our relationship with God we can have the same balance. Even if it’s only for a moment, listen to his voice.
3. “I read it before, and all I got were lists of people's names.”
If you don't know that there are parts of the Bible that are a little hard to read, you haven't read the entire thing. The truth is, everybody can get discouraged because they start their year-long Bible plan and get bored in Leviticus.
That's not the entire Bible though. (Btw, the book of Leviticus is particularly exciting in light of the cross).
There is so much more to explore. Just because you've started it a thousand times doesn't mean you've seen all there is to see. Wait until you get to the part about David and Goliath or Rahab. Even though you've heard those stories a million times, reading them for yourself is really fun. More fun than hearing them told. Also, check out the richness of the Psalms, the wisdom of Solomon or the History of the Church in the book of Acts. Yes, you have gone to read your Bible and fallen asleep. But, that's just one section out of thousands. Give it another shot.
4. “I don't know where to start.”
Let me ask you this. Where do you start with a newspaper? Front page? Sports section? Business? Probably whatever is most interesting to you. Well, what is interesting to you spiritually speaking? Money? Marriage? Anger? Lust?
If you’re looking for a place to start, why not get on Google, do some searching and find out what the Bible has to say about these topics? Searching any one of the topics I just mentioned will keep you reading for hours.
5. “It's boring”.
See Revelation 19, 20 and 21. That is all.
6. “I already know what it says.”
It's true! You can know exactly what the Bible says. I'm very, very familiar with the content of the Bible. In fact, at one point during college, you could name any book and chapter, and I could tell you what was in it! It's true! Now, since the exams I've forgotten most of that. But the point is, I know what the Bible says.
That doesn't mean I know everything about God. That doesn't mean I know everything about myself. You see, since college a lot about me has changed. I'm in new circumstances and facing new challenges. When I go to read the Bible now, I learn things about me and my life that I simply couldn't learn back in college.
I also find that there are things about the Lord that appear highlighted to me because of how much life has changed. Things I didn't previously know or emphasise about God, are now at the forefront of my mind.
There is no excuse! We need God, and the knowledge of God is found through the Word.
God wrote the best book ever written. Read it!
1. “It's going to take too much effort, and I'm tired.”
Yes. The Bible DOES take some effort to study. For example, if you simply open to the book of Joel, you may get confused. It's going to take some time to get out a study Bible or fire up a helpful Bible application like logos. BUT IT'S WORTH IT.
It's like digging for gold. You have to get some tools together. You have to sweat a little bit. But you get GOLD.
2. “It's going to take too much time, and I'm busy.”
There are times when it's necessary to read God's Word for an extended period of time. There is however, a myth that's floating around in your head that unless you read for an hour it's not beneficial. This is just false.
Take Psalm 103 for example. It takes less than 5 minutes to read but it is PACKED with beneficial reminders. OR, take the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000. You can read that in no time at all, and it will be very fulfilling. The truth is, it's ok to read a small portion of God's Word or just spend a few minutes in his presence. There is no time limit either way.
Think about your relationship with your best friend. Sometimes, you will talk for hours and other times you text.
I think in our relationship with God we can have the same balance. Even if it’s only for a moment, listen to his voice.
3. “I read it before, and all I got were lists of people's names.”
If you don't know that there are parts of the Bible that are a little hard to read, you haven't read the entire thing. The truth is, everybody can get discouraged because they start their year-long Bible plan and get bored in Leviticus.
That's not the entire Bible though. (Btw, the book of Leviticus is particularly exciting in light of the cross).
There is so much more to explore. Just because you've started it a thousand times doesn't mean you've seen all there is to see. Wait until you get to the part about David and Goliath or Rahab. Even though you've heard those stories a million times, reading them for yourself is really fun. More fun than hearing them told. Also, check out the richness of the Psalms, the wisdom of Solomon or the History of the Church in the book of Acts. Yes, you have gone to read your Bible and fallen asleep. But, that's just one section out of thousands. Give it another shot.
4. “I don't know where to start.”
Let me ask you this. Where do you start with a newspaper? Front page? Sports section? Business? Probably whatever is most interesting to you. Well, what is interesting to you spiritually speaking? Money? Marriage? Anger? Lust?
If you’re looking for a place to start, why not get on Google, do some searching and find out what the Bible has to say about these topics? Searching any one of the topics I just mentioned will keep you reading for hours.
5. “It's boring”.
See Revelation 19, 20 and 21. That is all.
6. “I already know what it says.”
It's true! You can know exactly what the Bible says. I'm very, very familiar with the content of the Bible. In fact, at one point during college, you could name any book and chapter, and I could tell you what was in it! It's true! Now, since the exams I've forgotten most of that. But the point is, I know what the Bible says.
That doesn't mean I know everything about God. That doesn't mean I know everything about myself. You see, since college a lot about me has changed. I'm in new circumstances and facing new challenges. When I go to read the Bible now, I learn things about me and my life that I simply couldn't learn back in college.
I also find that there are things about the Lord that appear highlighted to me because of how much life has changed. Things I didn't previously know or emphasise about God, are now at the forefront of my mind.
There is no excuse! We need God, and the knowledge of God is found through the Word.
God wrote the best book ever written. Read it!
YOUR BIBLE - THE GREATEST WEAPON OF MASS INSTRUCTION !!
Understanding the BibleThe Bible is an amazing book. It contains the mysteries of God, all hidden in plain sight. The purpose of this paper is to show you, my friends, some of the keys to understanding the Bible. You cannot simply pick it up and read and understand it. That just doesn't work.
In order for you to understand it you must first believe that is it true. To the same degree which you believe, and obey its teachings, you can understand it. If you believe that it was written by a bunch of old homophobic, self-seeking, women oppressing, male religious zealots, then you will have no faith in its truth, and therefore you will not benefit from its power. The book works by faith. You must have faith for God's promises to come to life for you. If your faith is not up to par, fear not, it is God who supplies the faith--just read it and try to hear and see what it is saying.
The Word of GodUltimately you must believe that it is the Word of God, that is, that it is divinely inspired as the Scriptures themselves say:
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (NIV)
2 Peter 1:20-21
Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. (NIV)
Two or Three WitnessesThis brings up another very important point. Every truth that you glean from the Scriptures must be established by two or three witnesses, that is, different places in the Bible, and must not be in disagreement with any other two or three passages. This is very, very important. If you hold something to be true, but I can produce two passages that are not in agreement with what you hold to be true, then you are in error. The error may be subtle, but it is nonetheless there. I can't tell you how many times people have put forth their ideas to me on some passage or other and then when I show them that it can't be true, because of this passage and that passage, they are offended and go off and continue believing it.
James 1:16-18
Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. (NIV)
Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.(NIV)
In order for you to understand it you must first believe that is it true. To the same degree which you believe, and obey its teachings, you can understand it. If you believe that it was written by a bunch of old homophobic, self-seeking, women oppressing, male religious zealots, then you will have no faith in its truth, and therefore you will not benefit from its power. The book works by faith. You must have faith for God's promises to come to life for you. If your faith is not up to par, fear not, it is God who supplies the faith--just read it and try to hear and see what it is saying.
The Word of GodUltimately you must believe that it is the Word of God, that is, that it is divinely inspired as the Scriptures themselves say:
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (NIV)
2 Peter 1:20-21
Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. (NIV)
Two or Three WitnessesThis brings up another very important point. Every truth that you glean from the Scriptures must be established by two or three witnesses, that is, different places in the Bible, and must not be in disagreement with any other two or three passages. This is very, very important. If you hold something to be true, but I can produce two passages that are not in agreement with what you hold to be true, then you are in error. The error may be subtle, but it is nonetheless there. I can't tell you how many times people have put forth their ideas to me on some passage or other and then when I show them that it can't be true, because of this passage and that passage, they are offended and go off and continue believing it.
James 1:16-18
Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. (NIV)
Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.(NIV)
“There are four principles we need to maintain:
First, read the Word of God.
Second, consume the Word of God until it consumes you.
Third believe the Word of God
Fourth, act on the Word.”
First, read the Word of God.
Second, consume the Word of God until it consumes you.
Third believe the Word of God
Fourth, act on the Word.”
What makes the Bible so amazing, special and important?
There has never been a book written in the same way as the Bible!
The Bible was written by over 40 authors…
who wrote from 3 different continents: Asia, Africa and Europe…
in many different places: wilderness, prison, traveling, islands…
at different times; covering a span of 1,500 years…
who did different kinds of jobs: fishermen, kings, shepherd, a herdsman, a politician, a doctor, a tax collector, a rabbinical scholar and more.
They all wrote about the same thing, and without any contradictions!
There has never been a book written in the same way as the Bible!
The Bible was written by over 40 authors…
who wrote from 3 different continents: Asia, Africa and Europe…
in many different places: wilderness, prison, traveling, islands…
at different times; covering a span of 1,500 years…
who did different kinds of jobs: fishermen, kings, shepherd, a herdsman, a politician, a doctor, a tax collector, a rabbinical scholar and more.
They all wrote about the same thing, and without any contradictions!
The Bible.
The center of a person's life…or the center of ridicule.
What is it? Why is it important?
A professor, who spent 42 years studying Eastern books said, Pile them on the
left side of your study table; but place your own Holy Bible on the right side—all by itself, all alone—and with a wide gap between them. For… there is a gulf between it and the so-called sacred books of the East which
severs the one from the other utterly, hopelessly, and forever… a veritable gulf which cannot be bridged.
Scripture is unique. It is a collection of 66 books by more than
40 authors from different walks of life:
fishermen, philosophers, peasants, kings, scholars, poets, and statesmen—all took part in writing these books. They wrote from different kinds of places, such as; a prison, a palace, and in the wilderness, and in times of peace, war, and exile. These books were written on three continents and in three languages. They cover many controversial subjects, as well as containing inspired poetry, detailed history, biographies, letters, and
prophecies.
With all these differences, you'd think we'd have a mess. But, we don't. From the beginning to end, there is one continuous theme: God revealing Himself to us and His attempts at reconciling us to Himself.
Let me ask you this; if you took just 10 books, all on the same controversial subject, and different authors from different times, cultures, and languages, would these authors agree?
Well, God has put together such a collection of books. He has done this so we could know Him.
The center of a person's life…or the center of ridicule.
What is it? Why is it important?
A professor, who spent 42 years studying Eastern books said, Pile them on the
left side of your study table; but place your own Holy Bible on the right side—all by itself, all alone—and with a wide gap between them. For… there is a gulf between it and the so-called sacred books of the East which
severs the one from the other utterly, hopelessly, and forever… a veritable gulf which cannot be bridged.
Scripture is unique. It is a collection of 66 books by more than
40 authors from different walks of life:
fishermen, philosophers, peasants, kings, scholars, poets, and statesmen—all took part in writing these books. They wrote from different kinds of places, such as; a prison, a palace, and in the wilderness, and in times of peace, war, and exile. These books were written on three continents and in three languages. They cover many controversial subjects, as well as containing inspired poetry, detailed history, biographies, letters, and
prophecies.
With all these differences, you'd think we'd have a mess. But, we don't. From the beginning to end, there is one continuous theme: God revealing Himself to us and His attempts at reconciling us to Himself.
Let me ask you this; if you took just 10 books, all on the same controversial subject, and different authors from different times, cultures, and languages, would these authors agree?
Well, God has put together such a collection of books. He has done this so we could know Him.
God's Word (the Bible ) is the critical key to each one of our lives. It is our light and our guide on the path of life. God's Word encourages, challenges and empowers us. It convicts us as it reveals the heart of God and His amazing design for us and it also tells us about ourselves in ways we've never imagined. It is the "measuring stick and mirror for our lives. God's Word must be our ultimate authority and it has to define who we are. "Cover To Cover" is a carefully designed program to help us immerse ourselves daily in the Word. With each daily reading, we'll systematically cover the entire Bible this year.
We all have busy lives, but spending regular, quality time in God's Word is important
We all have busy lives, but spending regular, quality time in God's Word is important
CUSTOMIZE YOUR QUIET TIME
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)
Devotions, quiet times – whatever name we use, we know that spending time with God is important. Knowing is one thing, though, and doing is another. I know flossing and exercise are really important too. But I struggle to do both with any kind of consistency. As much as I hate to admit it, I struggle just as much to spend consistent time with God. But instead of giving up, I finally found a solution that fits my life.
Years ago, I read an author who lived by the rule, “No Bible, no breakfast.” It was his way of prioritizing his devotional time. Since skipping breakfast was no fun, he quickly adopted a morning routine that left plenty of time for Jesus.
There’s a lot of wisdom in having a quiet time first thing in the morning. Except that I am terrible at it. I’m also terrible at praying right before bed. Recently, I realized that instead of beating myself up, I needed to create a habit that would work for me. So, I evaluated my daily routine and made my own rule: No Bible, No TV.
After a long day of work, chores and taking care of a toddler, I usually flop on the couch with the remote. Funny how I could always find time to watch a show, but I couldn’t find time to be with my Heavenly Father. “Ah ha!” I thought. “There’s my window.” I got out my phone and set a daily alarm for 7:45 PM. When the alarm goes off, I take some time to read and pray and I don’t flop on the couch until afterwards.
No Bible, no TV. It’s becoming a habit. It works for me. What will work for you?
Find your window. Are you a morning person? A night owl? Are you a shift worker or an exhausted parent who’s sleepy most of the time? Try to pinpoint a time of day that will actually work for you. Would your lunch hour work? You might need to get creative.
Set up a cue. A cue is a connection your brain makes between two things. It’s how habits are formed. Set up a cue for yourself that will help you develop a devotional habit. “Whenever I rock my baby to sleep, I will pray.” “I will read my Bible while I have my morning coffee.” If you’re someone who needs to move, you could listen to the Bible and pray during your walks or runs.
Start small. Don’t aim for hour-long sessions with Jesus just yet. Start with 10-15 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how much difference even 15 minutes every day will make.
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)
Devotions, quiet times – whatever name we use, we know that spending time with God is important. Knowing is one thing, though, and doing is another. I know flossing and exercise are really important too. But I struggle to do both with any kind of consistency. As much as I hate to admit it, I struggle just as much to spend consistent time with God. But instead of giving up, I finally found a solution that fits my life.
Years ago, I read an author who lived by the rule, “No Bible, no breakfast.” It was his way of prioritizing his devotional time. Since skipping breakfast was no fun, he quickly adopted a morning routine that left plenty of time for Jesus.
There’s a lot of wisdom in having a quiet time first thing in the morning. Except that I am terrible at it. I’m also terrible at praying right before bed. Recently, I realized that instead of beating myself up, I needed to create a habit that would work for me. So, I evaluated my daily routine and made my own rule: No Bible, No TV.
After a long day of work, chores and taking care of a toddler, I usually flop on the couch with the remote. Funny how I could always find time to watch a show, but I couldn’t find time to be with my Heavenly Father. “Ah ha!” I thought. “There’s my window.” I got out my phone and set a daily alarm for 7:45 PM. When the alarm goes off, I take some time to read and pray and I don’t flop on the couch until afterwards.
No Bible, no TV. It’s becoming a habit. It works for me. What will work for you?
Find your window. Are you a morning person? A night owl? Are you a shift worker or an exhausted parent who’s sleepy most of the time? Try to pinpoint a time of day that will actually work for you. Would your lunch hour work? You might need to get creative.
Set up a cue. A cue is a connection your brain makes between two things. It’s how habits are formed. Set up a cue for yourself that will help you develop a devotional habit. “Whenever I rock my baby to sleep, I will pray.” “I will read my Bible while I have my morning coffee.” If you’re someone who needs to move, you could listen to the Bible and pray during your walks or runs.
Start small. Don’t aim for hour-long sessions with Jesus just yet. Start with 10-15 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how much difference even 15 minutes every day will make.
Click on picture for audio Bible
2018 can be your year to read through the entire Bible. Click on the picture below and set up your own reading schedule ( a favorite site of Pastor Glenn)
Here are five ways to make your relationship with God stronger. By putting these five tools into action, you will not only please God, but build up your faith
in God at the same time.
1.) READ THE BIBLE
How can we really know who God is? It's only by reading the Bible.
In this age of information, it is easy to be confused by the amount of data that bombards us everyday. However, the Bible
is unique in that it is God's message to mankind–a message that never changes.
The Bible has the answers for all our questions and it offers hope in times of hopelessness. It tells us of our origin and of our eternal destiny. Most importantly, it tells us about Jesus Christ.
The Bible says that "faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ." (Romans 10:17) In other words, if you want your faith to grow and mature, read the Bible on a consistent basis.
2.) TALK TO GOD
Prayer is simply talking to God from your heart.
Your prayers don't have to sound "religious" and you don't have to use
"Christian-sounding" words. God wants to hear from the real
you and He wants to hear your deepest concerns and needs. Prayer is
mainly a time for us to thank the Lord and to praise Him for the great things He
has done in our lives.
Prayer is also a time for us to confess our sins to God. When you sin, don't beat yourself up and condemn
yourself but go directly to God and confess your sins in
prayer. God will be "faithful and just" to forgive you. Look at I John
1:8-10 and underline these scriptures in your Bible.
3.) HANG OUT WITH OTHERS,
BE WITH OTHER CHRISTIANS
Now that you have entered into God's family, you need to spend
time with other Christians. It's a good idea to
develop friendships with people who have been walking
with God for a long time so you can learn from
everything God has shown them over the years. Likewise,
as you grow and mature in the Lord, there will be others
who begin to learn from your example. That's what
church is all about–God's people helping each
other to grow.
4.) TELL OTHER PEOPLE ABOUT JESUS
Chances are, before you gave your life to Jesus, someone close to you or even someone you had
never met before told you about Jesus Christ. Always remember that God doesn't
want you to be a "secret Christian"–He wants you to share
your new life with all of your family and friends.
Jesus said, "You are the light of the world–like a city on a mountain,
glowing in the night for all to see. Don't hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let
it shine for all. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see,
so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." (Matthew
5:14-16)
5.) MAKE YOUR DECISION PUBLIC
It's important to make your decision public. One
way to do this is to be baptized in water. Baptism is an
outward expression of what the Lord has done on the
inside. Going under the water symbolizes dying to your old way of
life and coming up out of the water symbolizes being raised as a
new person. It is not the act of baptism which cleanses you of your
sins. Jesus said, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone,
everywhere. Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who
refuses to believe will be condemned." (Mark
16:15-16)
Notice that it is not the lack of baptism which
brings condemnation but unbelief. However, Jesus is
commanding us to be baptized and we should be careful to obey
everything that God asks of
us.
in God at the same time.
1.) READ THE BIBLE
How can we really know who God is? It's only by reading the Bible.
In this age of information, it is easy to be confused by the amount of data that bombards us everyday. However, the Bible
is unique in that it is God's message to mankind–a message that never changes.
The Bible has the answers for all our questions and it offers hope in times of hopelessness. It tells us of our origin and of our eternal destiny. Most importantly, it tells us about Jesus Christ.
The Bible says that "faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ." (Romans 10:17) In other words, if you want your faith to grow and mature, read the Bible on a consistent basis.
2.) TALK TO GOD
Prayer is simply talking to God from your heart.
Your prayers don't have to sound "religious" and you don't have to use
"Christian-sounding" words. God wants to hear from the real
you and He wants to hear your deepest concerns and needs. Prayer is
mainly a time for us to thank the Lord and to praise Him for the great things He
has done in our lives.
Prayer is also a time for us to confess our sins to God. When you sin, don't beat yourself up and condemn
yourself but go directly to God and confess your sins in
prayer. God will be "faithful and just" to forgive you. Look at I John
1:8-10 and underline these scriptures in your Bible.
3.) HANG OUT WITH OTHERS,
BE WITH OTHER CHRISTIANS
Now that you have entered into God's family, you need to spend
time with other Christians. It's a good idea to
develop friendships with people who have been walking
with God for a long time so you can learn from
everything God has shown them over the years. Likewise,
as you grow and mature in the Lord, there will be others
who begin to learn from your example. That's what
church is all about–God's people helping each
other to grow.
4.) TELL OTHER PEOPLE ABOUT JESUS
Chances are, before you gave your life to Jesus, someone close to you or even someone you had
never met before told you about Jesus Christ. Always remember that God doesn't
want you to be a "secret Christian"–He wants you to share
your new life with all of your family and friends.
Jesus said, "You are the light of the world–like a city on a mountain,
glowing in the night for all to see. Don't hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let
it shine for all. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see,
so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." (Matthew
5:14-16)
5.) MAKE YOUR DECISION PUBLIC
It's important to make your decision public. One
way to do this is to be baptized in water. Baptism is an
outward expression of what the Lord has done on the
inside. Going under the water symbolizes dying to your old way of
life and coming up out of the water symbolizes being raised as a
new person. It is not the act of baptism which cleanses you of your
sins. Jesus said, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone,
everywhere. Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who
refuses to believe will be condemned." (Mark
16:15-16)
Notice that it is not the lack of baptism which
brings condemnation but unbelief. However, Jesus is
commanding us to be baptized and we should be careful to obey
everything that God asks of
us.
How good does one have to be to go to heaven?
These four biblical truths are discussed below:
1. No human is perfect, but God is.
2. Sin separates us from God.
3. The Ten Commandments reveal our imperfection.
4. Jesus Christ is the solution to the problem.
1. No human is perfect, but God is. Therefore, no person can enter God’s presence on his or her own merit. No person is good enough to go to heaven.
Psa 143:2 and do not enter into judgment with your servant, For in Your sight no man living is righteous.
Eccl 7:20 Indeed, there is not a righteous man on earth who continually does good and who never sins.
Isa 64:6 For all of us have become like one who is unclean, And all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment.
Rom 3:10 as it is written, "THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS, NOT EVEN ONE;
Ezek 33:17 "Yet your fellow citizens say, 'The way of the Lord is not right,' when it is their own way that is not right.
Rom 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
It is sometimes difficult to understand why people we think of as "good" are not good enough to go to heaven. In reality, though, even a person who does many good things is still far from God’s holiness and perfection. Say that each person in the world was challenged to swim across the Pacific Ocean. Those who could not swim would drown close to shore. Olympic swimmers may make it several miles, but would also drown. Even the very best endurance swimmer could not come close to making it across the Pacific Ocean. Likewise, even the person who does more good deeds than anyone else, is far from God’s perfection.
2. Sin separates us from God. It keeps us out of heaven, and prevents us from having a relationship with Him, robbing us of joy and contentment.
Isa 59:2 But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, And your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear.
Return to top
3. The Ten Commandments reveal our imperfection. God gave the Ten Commandments—the Law—so that we would see that we fall short of His perfection and, therefore, need mercy and forgiveness instead of being judged on our thoughts, words, and actions. Consider, for example, the commandment Do not covet. Most people will admit that at some point in their life, they have wanted something that someone else had—their car, house, jacket, hair color, spouse, job, financial status, friends, body, education, parents. In God’s eye, the discontentment itself is sin, even if it does not lead to wrong words or actions.
Rom 3:20 Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. (NIV)
Gal 3:10 For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, "CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM."
Gal 3:19, 24 Why the Law then? 24 Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith.
4. Jesus Christ is the solution to the problem. Jesus did not abolish truth in bringing forgiveness to man. On the contrary, He fulfilled the Law. Picture God's perfect righteousness and justice on one side of a huge canyon, and human sinfulness on the other. Somehow each person needs to get to God, but gravity stands in the way--nobody can fly across the canyon. In this analogy, the Law serves to reveal to people that a huge canyon exists between God and man. Without the Law, we do not realize that we are sinful and thus separated from God. Jesus Christ is like a bridge extending across the canyon. The absolute truth of gravity still exists, but if we entrust our lives to Christ (walk across Him, the bridge), each of us can have access to God, be accepted by Him, and receive spiritual life.
Jesus is God’s gift of life to us. He not only provides the way to forgiveness for sin, but also gives us spiritual life, satisfying the discontentment of our hearts. All of us are guilty before God. The charge is sin. The penalty is death—separation from God forever. We can plead either guilty or innocent. If we plead innocent, we are judged on our thoughts, words, and actions. If we plead guilty, and ask for mercy through Christ, Christ’s death on the cross is accepted by God the Father as payment of our death penalty. We go free because Christ bore the penalty for us; He paid our debt. This is why the Bible describes Christ as a gift. Like any gift, we do not need to earn it; indeed we can’t. We merely receive it and say "thank you."
Rom 3:23-24 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus
Rom 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
1 Pet 3:18 For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God
1 Tim 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus
Rom 8:1, 2 Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.
Gal 2:16 a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified.
Eph 2:8, 9 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Titus 3:5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit
1 John 4:9,10 By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. 10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Could any person have died on a cross as a sacrifice for the sin of the human race? No. Only God Himself is a sufficient sacrifice. Although Jesus lived as a man on the earth, He was still God, and thus a sufficient sacrifice for our sin. Jesus Christ, the bridge, is the only way across the canyon:
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
These four biblical truths are discussed below:
1. No human is perfect, but God is.
2. Sin separates us from God.
3. The Ten Commandments reveal our imperfection.
4. Jesus Christ is the solution to the problem.
1. No human is perfect, but God is. Therefore, no person can enter God’s presence on his or her own merit. No person is good enough to go to heaven.
Psa 143:2 and do not enter into judgment with your servant, For in Your sight no man living is righteous.
Eccl 7:20 Indeed, there is not a righteous man on earth who continually does good and who never sins.
Isa 64:6 For all of us have become like one who is unclean, And all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment.
Rom 3:10 as it is written, "THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS, NOT EVEN ONE;
Ezek 33:17 "Yet your fellow citizens say, 'The way of the Lord is not right,' when it is their own way that is not right.
Rom 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
It is sometimes difficult to understand why people we think of as "good" are not good enough to go to heaven. In reality, though, even a person who does many good things is still far from God’s holiness and perfection. Say that each person in the world was challenged to swim across the Pacific Ocean. Those who could not swim would drown close to shore. Olympic swimmers may make it several miles, but would also drown. Even the very best endurance swimmer could not come close to making it across the Pacific Ocean. Likewise, even the person who does more good deeds than anyone else, is far from God’s perfection.
2. Sin separates us from God. It keeps us out of heaven, and prevents us from having a relationship with Him, robbing us of joy and contentment.
Isa 59:2 But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, And your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear.
Return to top
3. The Ten Commandments reveal our imperfection. God gave the Ten Commandments—the Law—so that we would see that we fall short of His perfection and, therefore, need mercy and forgiveness instead of being judged on our thoughts, words, and actions. Consider, for example, the commandment Do not covet. Most people will admit that at some point in their life, they have wanted something that someone else had—their car, house, jacket, hair color, spouse, job, financial status, friends, body, education, parents. In God’s eye, the discontentment itself is sin, even if it does not lead to wrong words or actions.
Rom 3:20 Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. (NIV)
Gal 3:10 For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, "CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM."
Gal 3:19, 24 Why the Law then? 24 Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith.
4. Jesus Christ is the solution to the problem. Jesus did not abolish truth in bringing forgiveness to man. On the contrary, He fulfilled the Law. Picture God's perfect righteousness and justice on one side of a huge canyon, and human sinfulness on the other. Somehow each person needs to get to God, but gravity stands in the way--nobody can fly across the canyon. In this analogy, the Law serves to reveal to people that a huge canyon exists between God and man. Without the Law, we do not realize that we are sinful and thus separated from God. Jesus Christ is like a bridge extending across the canyon. The absolute truth of gravity still exists, but if we entrust our lives to Christ (walk across Him, the bridge), each of us can have access to God, be accepted by Him, and receive spiritual life.
Jesus is God’s gift of life to us. He not only provides the way to forgiveness for sin, but also gives us spiritual life, satisfying the discontentment of our hearts. All of us are guilty before God. The charge is sin. The penalty is death—separation from God forever. We can plead either guilty or innocent. If we plead innocent, we are judged on our thoughts, words, and actions. If we plead guilty, and ask for mercy through Christ, Christ’s death on the cross is accepted by God the Father as payment of our death penalty. We go free because Christ bore the penalty for us; He paid our debt. This is why the Bible describes Christ as a gift. Like any gift, we do not need to earn it; indeed we can’t. We merely receive it and say "thank you."
Rom 3:23-24 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus
Rom 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
1 Pet 3:18 For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God
1 Tim 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus
Rom 8:1, 2 Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.
Gal 2:16 a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified.
Eph 2:8, 9 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Titus 3:5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit
1 John 4:9,10 By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. 10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Could any person have died on a cross as a sacrifice for the sin of the human race? No. Only God Himself is a sufficient sacrifice. Although Jesus lived as a man on the earth, He was still God, and thus a sufficient sacrifice for our sin. Jesus Christ, the bridge, is the only way across the canyon:
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
hey_im_a_believer_now.rtf | |
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A Different Way to Look at What Faith Is
Faith is not just believing about someone or something. Faith requires action on our
part. Once you have asked Jesus Christ into your life, you become a new person,
surrender your life to Him and your faith begins to take
over.
I think the best example of this that I’ve
heard is where you imagine you are driving down the road in your car. As long
as you are the driver, you have control of the steering wheel plus all the
other controls involved in driving. You have control over where you are going
and how you will get where you want to go.
If someone else takes over the driving, then that person has control over the
steering wheel plus the other controls. He or she controls where you are going
and how you will get there.
When we allow Jesus to take over our lives, we are placing our faith in his guidance and letting Him
control our lives.
You say, "How do I let Him control my life?" The answer is basically through three
actions.
1. Through regular prayer.
2. Through regular Bible study.
3. Through regular guidance and fellowship from other
Christians.
Once you have become a follower of Jesus
Christ, these three things are essential for you to be able to
put your faith in action.
Faith is not just believing about someone or something. Faith requires action on our
part. Once you have asked Jesus Christ into your life, you become a new person,
surrender your life to Him and your faith begins to take
over.
I think the best example of this that I’ve
heard is where you imagine you are driving down the road in your car. As long
as you are the driver, you have control of the steering wheel plus all the
other controls involved in driving. You have control over where you are going
and how you will get where you want to go.
If someone else takes over the driving, then that person has control over the
steering wheel plus the other controls. He or she controls where you are going
and how you will get there.
When we allow Jesus to take over our lives, we are placing our faith in his guidance and letting Him
control our lives.
You say, "How do I let Him control my life?" The answer is basically through three
actions.
1. Through regular prayer.
2. Through regular Bible study.
3. Through regular guidance and fellowship from other
Christians.
Once you have become a follower of Jesus
Christ, these three things are essential for you to be able to
put your faith in action.
How Do I Get Into Reading the Bible?
Christians talk all the time about reading their Bibles, but sometimes it's a struggle for people,
especially when you're just starting out reading about Christianity. So, how do
we know where to start, and how do we keep reading when parts of the BIble don't
seem so interesting?
Understand Why the Bible is So Important
The Bible gives us a great deal of advice and support in our daily walk with
Christ. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, we get guidance about God's
expectations from the Word. It gives us direction toward fulfilling God's
purpose. It helps us understand how to act and behave in our daily lives. It
is chock full of wisdom that we can use in real life.
Don't Stop at Your First Bible
So, while the Bible may be full of advice, it can also pose a challenge to
read. For some people, getting the most of their Bibles starts with finding the
right translation. There are a number of translations of the Bible that appeal to all
kinds of readers. The Bible is meant for everyone to be able to read and
understand. God wants his Word known to the world. So, if you're having
trouble reading your Bible and understanding it, spend some time with other
translations. Sometimes it takes phrasing things a little differently for us to
understand God's word better.
Try a Bible Study Bible
There are Bibles that also contain Bible studies within themselves. They
take apart the various sections of the Bible and give you lessons that we can
learn from each section. By reading through and then being able to examine the
word deeper, we gain a better grasp on what God is trying to tell us. There are
all kinds of Bible study Bibles, and you need to find the one that fits for you.
There are Bible study Bibles for girls, boys, women, men, grown ups, teens,
children, etc. If you have an interest, there is probably one for you. Take
some time to find one that works for you.
Don't Read the Bible in Order
People often get bored or confused but he Bible, because they try to read the
Bible in order, from start to finish. When you're first starting out in your
faith, this can be very difficult. Often new Christians are encouraged to start
with the New Testament. But it is okay to jump around the Bible. Each book
contains good stories and lessons on its own. For instance, starting with the
Book of John can often give a Christian insight into Jesus, so then other books
of the Bible are read with Jesus in mind. No matter where you start, though,
there is plenty of learn.
Use a Devotional
Devotionals are also a great way to read the Bible and stay on track. Many
devotionals focus on particular topics or even on particular books of the Bible.
Devotionals an be a way to get into a regular reading schedule and also delve
deeper into the Word.
Set Bible Reading Goals
Setting goals for reading the Bible helps with motivation. The Bible isn't
meant to be read in one night. It's meant to be read and absorbed. Sometimes
that means taking it slow, page-by-page. There is so much good advice in the
Bible, that if we rush through reading it, we'll miss the best parts. So set
realistic goals you can meet, but also take the Bible in doses that you can
handle and learn from.
Study in a Group
Another great way to stay focused on reading the Bible is to do it in a
group. Most churches have regular Bible studies. They often break the Bible
down into sections, and they also give you an opportunity to discuss what you've
read and how to apply it to your life, which is the whole reason we read the
Bible anyhow.
Christians talk all the time about reading their Bibles, but sometimes it's a struggle for people,
especially when you're just starting out reading about Christianity. So, how do
we know where to start, and how do we keep reading when parts of the BIble don't
seem so interesting?
Understand Why the Bible is So Important
The Bible gives us a great deal of advice and support in our daily walk with
Christ. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, we get guidance about God's
expectations from the Word. It gives us direction toward fulfilling God's
purpose. It helps us understand how to act and behave in our daily lives. It
is chock full of wisdom that we can use in real life.
Don't Stop at Your First Bible
So, while the Bible may be full of advice, it can also pose a challenge to
read. For some people, getting the most of their Bibles starts with finding the
right translation. There are a number of translations of the Bible that appeal to all
kinds of readers. The Bible is meant for everyone to be able to read and
understand. God wants his Word known to the world. So, if you're having
trouble reading your Bible and understanding it, spend some time with other
translations. Sometimes it takes phrasing things a little differently for us to
understand God's word better.
Try a Bible Study Bible
There are Bibles that also contain Bible studies within themselves. They
take apart the various sections of the Bible and give you lessons that we can
learn from each section. By reading through and then being able to examine the
word deeper, we gain a better grasp on what God is trying to tell us. There are
all kinds of Bible study Bibles, and you need to find the one that fits for you.
There are Bible study Bibles for girls, boys, women, men, grown ups, teens,
children, etc. If you have an interest, there is probably one for you. Take
some time to find one that works for you.
Don't Read the Bible in Order
People often get bored or confused but he Bible, because they try to read the
Bible in order, from start to finish. When you're first starting out in your
faith, this can be very difficult. Often new Christians are encouraged to start
with the New Testament. But it is okay to jump around the Bible. Each book
contains good stories and lessons on its own. For instance, starting with the
Book of John can often give a Christian insight into Jesus, so then other books
of the Bible are read with Jesus in mind. No matter where you start, though,
there is plenty of learn.
Use a Devotional
Devotionals are also a great way to read the Bible and stay on track. Many
devotionals focus on particular topics or even on particular books of the Bible.
Devotionals an be a way to get into a regular reading schedule and also delve
deeper into the Word.
Set Bible Reading Goals
Setting goals for reading the Bible helps with motivation. The Bible isn't
meant to be read in one night. It's meant to be read and absorbed. Sometimes
that means taking it slow, page-by-page. There is so much good advice in the
Bible, that if we rush through reading it, we'll miss the best parts. So set
realistic goals you can meet, but also take the Bible in doses that you can
handle and learn from.
Study in a Group
Another great way to stay focused on reading the Bible is to do it in a
group. Most churches have regular Bible studies. They often break the Bible
down into sections, and they also give you an opportunity to discuss what you've
read and how to apply it to your life, which is the whole reason we read the
Bible anyhow.
MORE HELP
What do Christians mean by being saved or born again?
Being “saved” and being
“born again” are terms used frequently by Christians. Both come from the
Bible.
The Bible says we must be born again to see the kingdom of God (see
the Bible's book according to John, 3:3 (chapter 3, verse 3)). Being born again
means entering into a new spiritual life through God's Holy Spirit.
Christians say that when someone gets “saved”, it means they have put their
trust in Jesus Christ, whom the Bible identifies as the Son of God, to “save”
them from eternal punishment in Hell (the place of eternal torment) after they
die.
Good or bad?
People will not go to Heaven because of their good deeds, nor to Hell because
of their sins. And this is a good thing, because if people went to Hell because
of their sins, everyone would go there. So God has made a way of escape
for us.
Born-again Christians believe that when they are saved they will not go to
Hell when they die, but instead they receive eternal life, and will go to be
with God and all other saved people in Heaven.
The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ, who is the Son of God, came to earth
more than 2000 years ago and died on a cross to pay for the sins of mankind. God
the Father then raised Him from the dead, proving He has power over life and
death. This raising from the dead is called the Resurrection. The Bible says that whoever
believes in Jesus Christ will not perish, but will have everlasting life (John
3:16).
Why do Christians believe it is so important to be saved?
The Bible says that all people are sinners and that sin brings death (Romans
3:23 and 6:23). God won't allow sin into Heaven, so Christians believe that
people need to be cleansed from their sins to experience life in Heaven with
God. (Can we trust the Bible? Absolutely.
The Bible says that God has already made this easy for us by allowing Jesus
Christ to die for our sins so that we can have salvation (get saved). All we
have to do is receive this free gift. It is like a situation in which you cannot
get something yourself because the price is too high, and then someone pays for
it for you. You still won't have the item until you decide to receive the
gift.
Likewise, even though Christ has died for us (Romans 5:8), we will not have
His gift of eternal life until we decide to receive it.
How do people receive this free gift of salvation?
The Bible says to repent (Luke 13:5). That means to be sorry
for, and to turn away from, sinful habits. The King James Bible says: “If thou
shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart
that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9).
Born-again Christians are just people like you and me who
have said with their mouth that they are now making Jesus Christ the Lord of
their life. They also genuinely believe in their heart that God raised Him from
the dead. According to the Bible, they are then saved.
What type of prayer do Christians pray to God when they become saved and born
again? Something along the lines of what follows is enough — but you can make it
personal by using your own words.
A guide to what to pray:
“Dear Father in Heaven, I realize that I am a sinner and need
forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sin. I am willing to turn
from my sins and lead the life you want me to lead. I now invite Jesus Christ to
come into my heart and I receive Him into my life as my personal Savior. I am
willing, by God's grace, to follow and obey Christ as the Lord of my
life.”
What next?
If you have decided to become a born-again Christian and have received Jesus
Christ as your Savior by praying something similar to the prayer above, proclaim
your faith in Jesus right now by letting someone (another Christian) know you
are now saved. (Or even just let us know if you are not sure that
anyone close to you is a Christian.) Then …
Plug into a Bible believing church where you can be mentored and fed. Build a network of solid Christian influence.
Get a Bible and read it every day to get to know Christ better.
What do Christians mean by being saved or born again?
Being “saved” and being
“born again” are terms used frequently by Christians. Both come from the
Bible.
The Bible says we must be born again to see the kingdom of God (see
the Bible's book according to John, 3:3 (chapter 3, verse 3)). Being born again
means entering into a new spiritual life through God's Holy Spirit.
Christians say that when someone gets “saved”, it means they have put their
trust in Jesus Christ, whom the Bible identifies as the Son of God, to “save”
them from eternal punishment in Hell (the place of eternal torment) after they
die.
Good or bad?
People will not go to Heaven because of their good deeds, nor to Hell because
of their sins. And this is a good thing, because if people went to Hell because
of their sins, everyone would go there. So God has made a way of escape
for us.
Born-again Christians believe that when they are saved they will not go to
Hell when they die, but instead they receive eternal life, and will go to be
with God and all other saved people in Heaven.
The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ, who is the Son of God, came to earth
more than 2000 years ago and died on a cross to pay for the sins of mankind. God
the Father then raised Him from the dead, proving He has power over life and
death. This raising from the dead is called the Resurrection. The Bible says that whoever
believes in Jesus Christ will not perish, but will have everlasting life (John
3:16).
Why do Christians believe it is so important to be saved?
The Bible says that all people are sinners and that sin brings death (Romans
3:23 and 6:23). God won't allow sin into Heaven, so Christians believe that
people need to be cleansed from their sins to experience life in Heaven with
God. (Can we trust the Bible? Absolutely.
The Bible says that God has already made this easy for us by allowing Jesus
Christ to die for our sins so that we can have salvation (get saved). All we
have to do is receive this free gift. It is like a situation in which you cannot
get something yourself because the price is too high, and then someone pays for
it for you. You still won't have the item until you decide to receive the
gift.
Likewise, even though Christ has died for us (Romans 5:8), we will not have
His gift of eternal life until we decide to receive it.
How do people receive this free gift of salvation?
The Bible says to repent (Luke 13:5). That means to be sorry
for, and to turn away from, sinful habits. The King James Bible says: “If thou
shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart
that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9).
Born-again Christians are just people like you and me who
have said with their mouth that they are now making Jesus Christ the Lord of
their life. They also genuinely believe in their heart that God raised Him from
the dead. According to the Bible, they are then saved.
What type of prayer do Christians pray to God when they become saved and born
again? Something along the lines of what follows is enough — but you can make it
personal by using your own words.
A guide to what to pray:
“Dear Father in Heaven, I realize that I am a sinner and need
forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sin. I am willing to turn
from my sins and lead the life you want me to lead. I now invite Jesus Christ to
come into my heart and I receive Him into my life as my personal Savior. I am
willing, by God's grace, to follow and obey Christ as the Lord of my
life.”
What next?
If you have decided to become a born-again Christian and have received Jesus
Christ as your Savior by praying something similar to the prayer above, proclaim
your faith in Jesus right now by letting someone (another Christian) know you
are now saved. (Or even just let us know if you are not sure that
anyone close to you is a Christian.) Then …
Plug into a Bible believing church where you can be mentored and fed. Build a network of solid Christian influence.
Get a Bible and read it every day to get to know Christ better.
Bible Reading for New
Christians
Thirty-one Days to Know God's
Plan for Us. This plan is a general overview of God's encounter with humanity,
our responses to Him, and how He gives us Hope, Salvation, and an Eternal
Future.
A Bible Reading Plan for those New to
the Christian Faith
1. The Fall of Humanity: Genesis
3:1-19
2. A People set for God: Genesis 12:1-3;
28:10-15; 32:22-28
3. The Ten Commandments: Exodus
20:1-17
4. Sacrifices and the Law: Leviticus
5:14-19
5. Dealing with Sin Under the Law: Leviticus
20:7-27
6. Obedience from Love: Deuteronomy 6:1-9;
11:13-21
7. Humanities Disobedience: Judges
2:10-19
8. The People Demand a King: 1 Samuel
8
9. Saul Fails and is Rejected: 1 Samuel
15:17-23
10. Many Kings Fail to Heed God: Jeremiah
1-17
11. The Sins of the People hurt God: Ezekiel
20:5-26
12. An Eternal King Promised: Jeremiah 23:1-6;
Isaiah 9:6-7; Zechariah 9:9-10
13. The Promised Christ is Born: Luke
2:1-20
14. The Word Became Flesh: John
1:1-18
15. Signs and Wonders of Jesus: Matthew 9:1-8;
Luke 13:10-17
16. Jesus Fulfills the Law: Matthew 5:17-20;
Romans 8:1-4
17. Jesus Teaches About our New Life: John
3
18. Jesus Taken: John 18:1-11
19. Jesus' Death and Resurrection: Luke
23:44-24:12
20. Christ a Sacrifice for All: Hebrews
10:1-18; 11:1-3: 12:1-3
21. God's Righteous Wrath Explained: Romans
1:18-32
22. God's Judgment is Explained: Romans
2:5-11
23. Saved By Grace Alone: Ephesians
2
24. Righteousness by Faith: Romans
3:9-26
25. Life Through Christ: Romans
5:12-21
26. Life by the Spirit: Romans 8:1-17;
Galatians 5:16-26
27. Living Sacrifices: Romans 12
28. Walking in the Light: 1 John
1-2
29. Living for God: 1 Peter 1-11
30. Love for one Another: 1 John
3:11-24
31. Promise of Eternity: 2 Corinthians 5:1-10;
Revelation 21:1-4
Christians
Thirty-one Days to Know God's
Plan for Us. This plan is a general overview of God's encounter with humanity,
our responses to Him, and how He gives us Hope, Salvation, and an Eternal
Future.
A Bible Reading Plan for those New to
the Christian Faith
1. The Fall of Humanity: Genesis
3:1-19
2. A People set for God: Genesis 12:1-3;
28:10-15; 32:22-28
3. The Ten Commandments: Exodus
20:1-17
4. Sacrifices and the Law: Leviticus
5:14-19
5. Dealing with Sin Under the Law: Leviticus
20:7-27
6. Obedience from Love: Deuteronomy 6:1-9;
11:13-21
7. Humanities Disobedience: Judges
2:10-19
8. The People Demand a King: 1 Samuel
8
9. Saul Fails and is Rejected: 1 Samuel
15:17-23
10. Many Kings Fail to Heed God: Jeremiah
1-17
11. The Sins of the People hurt God: Ezekiel
20:5-26
12. An Eternal King Promised: Jeremiah 23:1-6;
Isaiah 9:6-7; Zechariah 9:9-10
13. The Promised Christ is Born: Luke
2:1-20
14. The Word Became Flesh: John
1:1-18
15. Signs and Wonders of Jesus: Matthew 9:1-8;
Luke 13:10-17
16. Jesus Fulfills the Law: Matthew 5:17-20;
Romans 8:1-4
17. Jesus Teaches About our New Life: John
3
18. Jesus Taken: John 18:1-11
19. Jesus' Death and Resurrection: Luke
23:44-24:12
20. Christ a Sacrifice for All: Hebrews
10:1-18; 11:1-3: 12:1-3
21. God's Righteous Wrath Explained: Romans
1:18-32
22. God's Judgment is Explained: Romans
2:5-11
23. Saved By Grace Alone: Ephesians
2
24. Righteousness by Faith: Romans
3:9-26
25. Life Through Christ: Romans
5:12-21
26. Life by the Spirit: Romans 8:1-17;
Galatians 5:16-26
27. Living Sacrifices: Romans 12
28. Walking in the Light: 1 John
1-2
29. Living for God: 1 Peter 1-11
30. Love for one Another: 1 John
3:11-24
31. Promise of Eternity: 2 Corinthians 5:1-10;
Revelation 21:1-4
" Train To Reign "
1. INTRODUCTION
Meditate on every study and ask for divine revelation on how to apply it to your everyday life. ‘Become doers of the Word and not hearers only’ James 1:22.
Spend some time on every subject and meditate on His words. (Don’t move on too quickly to the next one.)
Ask yourself ‘how will I apply this to my life?’
In every subject you will be given...
A question and an answer to introduce the topic.
A fact to help you understand the topic.
A word of wisdom.
A question for you to think about.
More information from the Scriptures on the topic. This is your study mission, if you choose to accept it.
‘But seeing the boldness of Peter and John, and perceiving that they were unlearned and uneducated men, they marvelled. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus’ Acts 4:13.
We're starting with five parts then they will be updated weekly. This course is designed to be completed in a logical order, starting at number one and continuing to the end.
Let's begin !
2. In the BEGINNING - A look at OUR NEED
Question and answer: “Religion sounds boring, what good is
it to me?”
Religion
often is very boring and dull. In religion people usually perform rituals,
trying to appease their god(s). BUT Christianity is well different; it is all
about having a relationship with the true God. We don’t need to spend a lifetime
trying to make God happy with us, Jesus died so He could be well pleased with
us!
John 3:16 ‘For God so loved the world that He gave His only
begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal
life’
Fact: Jesus offers you a new, exciting and
challenging life as a disciple.
In the beginning Adam and Eve disobeyed
God, and we all do the same. This is called sin, and it separates us from God
and the great life that He has for us.
God is totally just and so
could not have fellowship with sinful people, because He hates sin. Yet, He
loved us so much that he sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sin so we
could be forgiven! Jesus had never sinned, yet He wanted to be judged for all
the wrong things that we do, because He wanted to have fellowship with us.
Wisdom: Let’s
think about someone stealing from a shop. They go to court and plead their
innocence. But the CCTV cameras show that they were guilty. Suddenly the judge
announces that they are guilty, but he decides to pay the fine and so the guilty
person goes free.
Jesus did that for us, we have been caught lying,
swearing, hurting people, getting angry, rejecting God’s commands and
dishonouring our parents and so much more! Yet Jesus says even though we are
guilty, He has paid the price so we can be forgiven!
More
Info: From the Holy Bible,
the books Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, the verse 1 Corinthians 15:22.
3. WHAT is a CHRISTIAN?
Question and answer: “If I go to church, does that make me
a Christian?”
No! Not at
all! I go into the bathroom every day and I have never turned into a toilet or a
sink! When I walk into a garage (bump!) it does not turn me into a car. Going to
church does not make me a Christian. It is also totally impossible to be born a
Christian.
The name
‘Christian’ started off as a nickname to those people who followed Jesus and
believed in His teaching. They belonged to that group of people. Christians are
followers of Jesus Christ or people belonging to Jesus.
They were also
called followers of ‘the way’ (Acts 9:2, 24:14). The people were first called
‘Christian’ in Antioch (Acts 11:26). It was like a church base where the
Apostles hung out in between mission work (Jerusalem was the first mission
sending base, Acts 11:19-22).
Fact: Christ
= Anointed One in the Greek language. Most of the New Testament was originally
written in Greek.
Wisdom: To
be a Christian you have to repent and believe in Jesus, and then you must apply
the Bible’s teaching to your life. Christians believe that the Bible is the
inspired Word of God. We should act like a true Christian, or we should stop
calling ourselves by that name.
John 14:6 Jesus said to Thomas, "I am
the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through
Me”. See John 3:3, Acts 2:38.
Have you ever seen someone
wearing the shirt of one football team and then supporting the rivals? You have
to support the team whose shirt you are wearing. To wear Jesus Christ’s ‘shirt’
you must obey Him.
Think: True or false? God is all-powerful.
If you obey Him, He can do more with your life, than you could have done on your
own.
More Info: Ecclesiastes 3:15, Isaiah 55:6,7,
Ezekiel 18:20, 36:20, Jeremiah 29:13, Matthew 11:28, Mark 8:36, John 1:29,
3:15-18,36, 5:24, 6:35,47, 10:10,11, 11:25,26, Hebrews 1:7,8, 2 Peter
2:4-9.
Question and answer: “If I go to church, does that make me
a Christian?”
No! Not at
all! I go into the bathroom every day and I have never turned into a toilet or a
sink! When I walk into a garage (bump!) it does not turn me into a car. Going to
church does not make me a Christian. It is also totally impossible to be born a
Christian.
The name
‘Christian’ started off as a nickname to those people who followed Jesus and
believed in His teaching. They belonged to that group of people. Christians are
followers of Jesus Christ or people belonging to Jesus.
They were also
called followers of ‘the way’ (Acts 9:2, 24:14). The people were first called
‘Christian’ in Antioch (Acts 11:26). It was like a church base where the
Apostles hung out in between mission work (Jerusalem was the first mission
sending base, Acts 11:19-22).
Fact: Christ
= Anointed One in the Greek language. Most of the New Testament was originally
written in Greek.
Wisdom: To
be a Christian you have to repent and believe in Jesus, and then you must apply
the Bible’s teaching to your life. Christians believe that the Bible is the
inspired Word of God. We should act like a true Christian, or we should stop
calling ourselves by that name.
John 14:6 Jesus said to Thomas, "I am
the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through
Me”. See John 3:3, Acts 2:38.
Have you ever seen someone
wearing the shirt of one football team and then supporting the rivals? You have
to support the team whose shirt you are wearing. To wear Jesus Christ’s ‘shirt’
you must obey Him.
Think: True or false? God is all-powerful.
If you obey Him, He can do more with your life, than you could have done on your
own.
More Info: Ecclesiastes 3:15, Isaiah 55:6,7,
Ezekiel 18:20, 36:20, Jeremiah 29:13, Matthew 11:28, Mark 8:36, John 1:29,
3:15-18,36, 5:24, 6:35,47, 10:10,11, 11:25,26, Hebrews 1:7,8, 2 Peter
2:4-9.
4. TELL ME more about becoming a Christian
Question and answer: “If I am a good person will I get to
heaven?”
NO! Even good
people do bad things that hurt others. Have you obeyed all the commandments? Is
God always first in your life? Everyone has sin and this separates us from God.
But we can be saved, because Jesus came to forgive us, if we will repent and
turn to Him. Exodus 20, Matthew 5:27-28, Romans 5:15-18.
1 John 1:9 ‘If we confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just to forgive us
our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness’
1. Jesus said
that you must be born again, John 3:3-18. It means starting your life once
again, with the view of loving God first. First pray in your own words and ask
Him in as Lord of your life.
2. You need to repent of all
your sin (say you’re sorry and have a change of mind – I will not live like this
anymore). Mark 1:15, 6:12. Sin is all the wrong things that you say, think and
do. Jesus died on the cross for our sins; He took the punishment that we
deserved, so that we could go free.
Think: Is
there any reason why I should not give my life to Jesus?
Romans
10:9-10 ‘…. if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your
heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the
heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made
unto salvation’
Wisdom: I can trust God with my life in every
situation.
I want to be a Christian. This involves four elements:
repenting towards God; believing in the Lord Jesus; being baptised in water;
receiving the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38.
Be honest with God and say a prayer
similar to this with all your heart. (If it is not from your heart, then don’t
pray it! God is listening and will only take you seriously if you are serious
with Him. But if you are real with God, He will be real with you. That is why
people say; “I have tried Christianity, but it did not work for me”. They were
not real with God, and so God was not real with them.) “Dear Jesus I am sorry
for all the bad things that I have done and thought (sin). I now choose to turn
away from my sin. I believe that you died on the cross for me and after three
days you rose again. Please forgive me and come into my life to be my best
friend and from now on I want to follow you. AMEN.”
To be a Christian
means you now support Jesus and you want to live your life for Him. You have
been accepted into God’s family and you are now a child of God. You can even
call God ‘Father’ when you pray and talk to Him. John 1:12 and Romans
8:15.
More Info: Acts 4:12-13, Romans 3:10, 23,
5:8,12, 6:23, 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10, Ephesians 2:8-9, Galatians 3:10, Hebrews
9:27-28, 1 John 1:9, 5:12, Revelations 3:20.
Question and answer: “If I am a good person will I get to
heaven?”
NO! Even good
people do bad things that hurt others. Have you obeyed all the commandments? Is
God always first in your life? Everyone has sin and this separates us from God.
But we can be saved, because Jesus came to forgive us, if we will repent and
turn to Him. Exodus 20, Matthew 5:27-28, Romans 5:15-18.
1 John 1:9 ‘If we confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just to forgive us
our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness’
1. Jesus said
that you must be born again, John 3:3-18. It means starting your life once
again, with the view of loving God first. First pray in your own words and ask
Him in as Lord of your life.
2. You need to repent of all
your sin (say you’re sorry and have a change of mind – I will not live like this
anymore). Mark 1:15, 6:12. Sin is all the wrong things that you say, think and
do. Jesus died on the cross for our sins; He took the punishment that we
deserved, so that we could go free.
Think: Is
there any reason why I should not give my life to Jesus?
Romans
10:9-10 ‘…. if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your
heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the
heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made
unto salvation’
Wisdom: I can trust God with my life in every
situation.
I want to be a Christian. This involves four elements:
repenting towards God; believing in the Lord Jesus; being baptised in water;
receiving the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38.
Be honest with God and say a prayer
similar to this with all your heart. (If it is not from your heart, then don’t
pray it! God is listening and will only take you seriously if you are serious
with Him. But if you are real with God, He will be real with you. That is why
people say; “I have tried Christianity, but it did not work for me”. They were
not real with God, and so God was not real with them.) “Dear Jesus I am sorry
for all the bad things that I have done and thought (sin). I now choose to turn
away from my sin. I believe that you died on the cross for me and after three
days you rose again. Please forgive me and come into my life to be my best
friend and from now on I want to follow you. AMEN.”
To be a Christian
means you now support Jesus and you want to live your life for Him. You have
been accepted into God’s family and you are now a child of God. You can even
call God ‘Father’ when you pray and talk to Him. John 1:12 and Romans
8:15.
More Info: Acts 4:12-13, Romans 3:10, 23,
5:8,12, 6:23, 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10, Ephesians 2:8-9, Galatians 3:10, Hebrews
9:27-28, 1 John 1:9, 5:12, Revelations 3:20.
5. Now I am a CHRISTIAN, What Is NEXT?
Question and answer: “Now that I am a Christian, do I live my life waiting for heaven?”
You can be happy because a mansion has been prepared for you in heaven - you have a reservation! John 14:2. You are now child of God and part of the family John 1:12. But there is so much more, take a look at your Bible to start the adventure of discipleship.
What you need to do:
1. Read a portion of your Bible everyday and as you read ask God to speak to your heart. It is good to start by reading five minutes a day or more, but make sure you spend some time with the Bible everyday.
2. Pray daily to God. Talk to Him like you would a friend, but be respectful. You can tell Him anything or ask for His help, and do try to listen as a one sided conversation is boring and rude. You don’t have to pray on your knees, I often pray when I go out for a walk, whilst others like to pray in a chair.
3. Find a good church that believes the Bible and attend there regularly.
4. Tell a friend about your decision to follow Jesus.
Think: What ungodly habit or thing do I need to stop?
John 1:12 ‘As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name’
Question: “Should my lifestyle change?” As a Christian you are a new Creation, - spiritually you have been born again. You should not live for self, but for the will of God. Change does not happen over night and no one becomes a saint instantly! Try your best. When you make a mistake, and you will, tell God that you are sorry and He will forgive you. 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 John 2:2.
Fact: God is not like a policeman, who is ready to arrest you for any offence. He does give practical advice and it is all written down in the Bible. Remember that God does not want to spoil your fun, but He is trying to protect you from the harmful effects of sin.
Wisdom: Ask yourself what would Jesus do? If you think Jesus would not do it, then its best if you do not do it either.
More Info: Psalm 1:1-3, 2, 119:11, 15-16, 18, 105, Matthew 6:9-13, 7:7-8, John 3:30, 15:7. Romans 1:16, Philippians 4:6, 2 Timothy 2:19, 3:16-17, 1 Peter 1:16, 3:15.
Question and answer: “Now that I am a Christian, do I live my life waiting for heaven?”
You can be happy because a mansion has been prepared for you in heaven - you have a reservation! John 14:2. You are now child of God and part of the family John 1:12. But there is so much more, take a look at your Bible to start the adventure of discipleship.
What you need to do:
1. Read a portion of your Bible everyday and as you read ask God to speak to your heart. It is good to start by reading five minutes a day or more, but make sure you spend some time with the Bible everyday.
2. Pray daily to God. Talk to Him like you would a friend, but be respectful. You can tell Him anything or ask for His help, and do try to listen as a one sided conversation is boring and rude. You don’t have to pray on your knees, I often pray when I go out for a walk, whilst others like to pray in a chair.
3. Find a good church that believes the Bible and attend there regularly.
4. Tell a friend about your decision to follow Jesus.
Think: What ungodly habit or thing do I need to stop?
John 1:12 ‘As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name’
Question: “Should my lifestyle change?” As a Christian you are a new Creation, - spiritually you have been born again. You should not live for self, but for the will of God. Change does not happen over night and no one becomes a saint instantly! Try your best. When you make a mistake, and you will, tell God that you are sorry and He will forgive you. 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 John 2:2.
Fact: God is not like a policeman, who is ready to arrest you for any offence. He does give practical advice and it is all written down in the Bible. Remember that God does not want to spoil your fun, but He is trying to protect you from the harmful effects of sin.
Wisdom: Ask yourself what would Jesus do? If you think Jesus would not do it, then its best if you do not do it either.
More Info: Psalm 1:1-3, 2, 119:11, 15-16, 18, 105, Matthew 6:9-13, 7:7-8, John 3:30, 15:7. Romans 1:16, Philippians 4:6, 2 Timothy 2:19, 3:16-17, 1 Peter 1:16, 3:15.
19. GODLY FRIENDS are GOOD to have
Question
and answer: “Should I have
non-Christian friends?”
It is important to have non-Christian friends,
because you are the light of the world. But sometimes if you are weak in faith,
they could lead you astray. Are your friends open to the gospel, or do they
consistently lead you into sin? God may show you not to spend time with certain
people because of the negative influence they have on you. He may call you to be
a friend to them also, as a witness for Him.
Proverbs 12:26 and 13:20
‘The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the wicked
leads him astray’. ‘He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion
of fools will be destroyed’
A friend is good for a chat and will
listen to you. A true friend should tell you in a loving attitude when you are
wrong. A friend is someone who you can laugh with and sometimes you will cry
together. Proverbs 27:9 ‘Ointment and perfume delight the heart and the
sweetness of a man's friend gives delight by hearty
counsel’.
Fact: A
real friend will stick around in difficult times Proverbs 27:10. On the other
hand we should not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits’ 1
Corinthians 15:33.
Sometimes the people you study or work with can be
‘friends’ within the environment of school, college or work place etc. You may
have to choose not to socialise with them at other times, because their life
style would be a hindrance to your spiritual growth.
Wisdom: Some ‘friends’ may think less of you
for becoming a Christian. They may not want to socialise with you any more. It’s
OK to drift apart.
Your Christian friends should help you grow in faith.
Proverbs 27:6, 17. It is good to talk about your walk with God in an informal
way. Ask your friends what they have been reading in the Bible, or what they
have been praying for. Encourage each other to go deeper with
God.
Think: Do any
of my friends have a negative influence on me? Who has a positive influence on
me and should I spend more time with them?
More Info: Deuteronomy
13:6-8, 1 Samuel 20, Proverbs 17:9,17, 18:1,24, 22:24, 28:23, Ecclesiastes
7:21,22, (Matthew 26:31-75 & John 21:15-19) John 15:14, Philippians
2:3,4.
20. RELATIONSHIPS with the OPPOSITE sex
Question
and answer: “What are the
rules for relationships with the opposite sex?”
This
is a very interesting question with many different ideas; depending on what
culture you come from. Even in the West, the American form of going out is
different from that of the British. The universal rule is that you do not have a
relationship (boyfriend or girlfriend) with some one who is not a
Christian.
2 Corinthians 6:14 ‘Do not be yoked together with
unbelievers, for what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what
fellowship can light have with darkness?’
A yoke is a piece of
equipment that goes across an animal’s neck. The animal is harnessed to a
plough, and it pulls it across a field. Often there would be two animals working
side by side pulling one large plough. Imagine if an ox and a donkey were yoked
together, they would end up going in circles, and the ox would carry most of the
burden. Christians and unbelievers are very different people with different
views.
Wisdom: To
obey God’s word is safe and profitable. To disobey God will result in broken
fellowship with Him and possible disaster.
In a sports team, the coach
or manager will give everyone a tactical plan. If you ignore their plan, and
play by different rules, don’t be surprised when you lose and disappoint a lot
of people, including yourself.
Fact: Most
people enter into a relationship unsure of the rules that have been made for
their own protection. That can result in broken hearts/lives.
To jump
from one relationship to another is not God’s plan. Those who do this often have
little self worth, and try to find acceptance and love in a partner. We can only
find unconditional love and acceptance from God. Allow God to show you who is
the right person for you. Sex is only permissible in the context of marriage.
You do not need to go with the crowd, you are not odd - you’re smart. It is wise
to hang out in groups and not in secluded places where you could be tempted. Job
31:1, Matthew 6:22,23.
If you compromise your/God’s standards when you
choose a partner, don’t be surprised if they compromise their standards with
you. Also, don’t be surprised if they won’t live by the standards that you
compromised.
Think: Does
your relationship enrich or weaken your walk with God?
More
Info: Genesis 2:18-25,
Exodus 34:16, Joshua 23:12,13, Ezra 9:1-15, Nehemiah 13:23-27, Proverbs 13:13,
31:30, Amos 3:3, Matthew 12:25, Luke, 11:28, 1 Corinthians 6:9,10,19,20, 15:33,
2 Corinthians 6:14-18, 1 Thess. 4:7, 5:21,22, James 1:22, 4:4.
21. SEX outside of marriage
Question
and answer: “All my friends
are doing it, so why can’t I?”
In all probability not all
your friends are doing it, they just want to sound cool, pretending to be
mature. There is nothing mature about sex outside of marriage, animals like pigs
and donkeys mate whom they want and never get married! With the problems of
unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases and broken hearts, it would
be foolish to experiment or to try it ‘the once’. The once will turn into many
times and before you know it ‘your sins will find you out’.
Genesis
2:24 ‘A man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and
they shall become one flesh’
Sexual intercourse is a spiritual union
where two people become one. If you have slept around, spiritually your soul is
a bit confused. You need to repent and to renounce what you have done. If you
have lost your virginity outside of marriage, then you need also to repent, and
remember now that you have become a new creation 2 Corinthians
5:17.
Wisdom: Respect and love is the ability to
walk away from something you desire (sex) to protect something or someone you
love. To let a fool kiss you is stupid, but to let a kiss fool you is
worse.
In a relationship both parties have to be smart. Be careful what
you wear, don’t be provocative and dress wisely. Keep your hands to yourself,
enjoy the relationship and don’t be controlled by lust. Try not to be alone
together in a room where the door is shut. Purity is the name of the game; and
‘give no appearance of evil’.
1 Corinthians 6:20
‘Glorify God in your body and in your Spirit…’
Fact: Your virginity is one of the few
things that you give away once, and never have the opportunity to get it back. A
stolen moment of pleasure is not worth days or weeks of worry and a lifetime of
regret.
Sex is like a fire; the same flame that warms a home can burn it
down. God’s proper place and time for sex is in the context of
marriage.
Think: Have I mistaken love for lust? Love
waits for marriage.
More Info: Proverbs 5, Matthew 5:27,28, 6:33,
15:19,20, Romans 6:15-23, 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Galatians 5:16-21,Colossians
3:5-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-6, 1 Timothy 5:1-2.
22. FORGIVE or you will be SORRY!
Question
and answer: “I hate
apologising, it is so embarrassing. Do I have to do it?”
It can be
embarrassing, but God does want us to be humble. It is important for us to admit
it when we are wrong and to set the record straight. When we understand that God
will require us to apologise, it does help us think twice before we do or say
something stupid.
Matthew 6:14-15 ‘If you forgive men when they sin
against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not
forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your
sins’
Forgiveness is a gift we receive from God that we don’t
deserve; Therefore, forgiveness is a gift we give to others that they don’t
deserve.
Forgiveness includes giving up all emotional claims for
compensation and ceasing to feel resentment after a wrong has happened. After
forgiving someone, you will still recall painful memories. Remind yourself that
you have forgiven, and choose to think about something else. Pray for those
concerned and eventually your anger will subside.
Fact: Music and films can stir our emotions
to make us feel good or bad. Forgiveness is not a feeling, but a choice. We
choose to forgive.
We forgive because God commands us to, and for medical
reasons! Un-forgiveness breeds resentment, bitterness etc, this has been proven
to lead to physical illness. Un-forgiveness hurts others and can lead us into
sinful habits to escape our own pain.
If we do not forgive others, God
will not forgive us! Matthew 6:12. We continually ask God to forgive us, often
for the same sin, so be forgiving when someone keeps offending you. Treat others
like God treats you.
Wisdom: If your fellowship with another
believer has been broken, unless you forgive/confess and seek restoration, your
right standing before God will be compromised. Matthew 5:23-24, Luke 7:41-47.
Resolve the situation as soon as possible.
Think: Do
I need to apologise to someone or make amends?
A circle of apology should
be extended to those people who were involved within the circle of offence.
Therefore if we have made a public mistake or caused offence then a public
apology needs to be made.
More Info: Matthew
18:21-22, Mark 11:25, Luke 15:11-31, 17:3,4, 1 Corinthians 13:4-5, 2 Corinthians
2:5-11, 1 Peter 4:8. The story of Joseph, Genesis 45-50.
Question
and answer: “Should I have
non-Christian friends?”
It is important to have non-Christian friends,
because you are the light of the world. But sometimes if you are weak in faith,
they could lead you astray. Are your friends open to the gospel, or do they
consistently lead you into sin? God may show you not to spend time with certain
people because of the negative influence they have on you. He may call you to be
a friend to them also, as a witness for Him.
Proverbs 12:26 and 13:20
‘The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the wicked
leads him astray’. ‘He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion
of fools will be destroyed’
A friend is good for a chat and will
listen to you. A true friend should tell you in a loving attitude when you are
wrong. A friend is someone who you can laugh with and sometimes you will cry
together. Proverbs 27:9 ‘Ointment and perfume delight the heart and the
sweetness of a man's friend gives delight by hearty
counsel’.
Fact: A
real friend will stick around in difficult times Proverbs 27:10. On the other
hand we should not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits’ 1
Corinthians 15:33.
Sometimes the people you study or work with can be
‘friends’ within the environment of school, college or work place etc. You may
have to choose not to socialise with them at other times, because their life
style would be a hindrance to your spiritual growth.
Wisdom: Some ‘friends’ may think less of you
for becoming a Christian. They may not want to socialise with you any more. It’s
OK to drift apart.
Your Christian friends should help you grow in faith.
Proverbs 27:6, 17. It is good to talk about your walk with God in an informal
way. Ask your friends what they have been reading in the Bible, or what they
have been praying for. Encourage each other to go deeper with
God.
Think: Do any
of my friends have a negative influence on me? Who has a positive influence on
me and should I spend more time with them?
More Info: Deuteronomy
13:6-8, 1 Samuel 20, Proverbs 17:9,17, 18:1,24, 22:24, 28:23, Ecclesiastes
7:21,22, (Matthew 26:31-75 & John 21:15-19) John 15:14, Philippians
2:3,4.
20. RELATIONSHIPS with the OPPOSITE sex
Question
and answer: “What are the
rules for relationships with the opposite sex?”
This
is a very interesting question with many different ideas; depending on what
culture you come from. Even in the West, the American form of going out is
different from that of the British. The universal rule is that you do not have a
relationship (boyfriend or girlfriend) with some one who is not a
Christian.
2 Corinthians 6:14 ‘Do not be yoked together with
unbelievers, for what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what
fellowship can light have with darkness?’
A yoke is a piece of
equipment that goes across an animal’s neck. The animal is harnessed to a
plough, and it pulls it across a field. Often there would be two animals working
side by side pulling one large plough. Imagine if an ox and a donkey were yoked
together, they would end up going in circles, and the ox would carry most of the
burden. Christians and unbelievers are very different people with different
views.
Wisdom: To
obey God’s word is safe and profitable. To disobey God will result in broken
fellowship with Him and possible disaster.
In a sports team, the coach
or manager will give everyone a tactical plan. If you ignore their plan, and
play by different rules, don’t be surprised when you lose and disappoint a lot
of people, including yourself.
Fact: Most
people enter into a relationship unsure of the rules that have been made for
their own protection. That can result in broken hearts/lives.
To jump
from one relationship to another is not God’s plan. Those who do this often have
little self worth, and try to find acceptance and love in a partner. We can only
find unconditional love and acceptance from God. Allow God to show you who is
the right person for you. Sex is only permissible in the context of marriage.
You do not need to go with the crowd, you are not odd - you’re smart. It is wise
to hang out in groups and not in secluded places where you could be tempted. Job
31:1, Matthew 6:22,23.
If you compromise your/God’s standards when you
choose a partner, don’t be surprised if they compromise their standards with
you. Also, don’t be surprised if they won’t live by the standards that you
compromised.
Think: Does
your relationship enrich or weaken your walk with God?
More
Info: Genesis 2:18-25,
Exodus 34:16, Joshua 23:12,13, Ezra 9:1-15, Nehemiah 13:23-27, Proverbs 13:13,
31:30, Amos 3:3, Matthew 12:25, Luke, 11:28, 1 Corinthians 6:9,10,19,20, 15:33,
2 Corinthians 6:14-18, 1 Thess. 4:7, 5:21,22, James 1:22, 4:4.
21. SEX outside of marriage
Question
and answer: “All my friends
are doing it, so why can’t I?”
In all probability not all
your friends are doing it, they just want to sound cool, pretending to be
mature. There is nothing mature about sex outside of marriage, animals like pigs
and donkeys mate whom they want and never get married! With the problems of
unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases and broken hearts, it would
be foolish to experiment or to try it ‘the once’. The once will turn into many
times and before you know it ‘your sins will find you out’.
Genesis
2:24 ‘A man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and
they shall become one flesh’
Sexual intercourse is a spiritual union
where two people become one. If you have slept around, spiritually your soul is
a bit confused. You need to repent and to renounce what you have done. If you
have lost your virginity outside of marriage, then you need also to repent, and
remember now that you have become a new creation 2 Corinthians
5:17.
Wisdom: Respect and love is the ability to
walk away from something you desire (sex) to protect something or someone you
love. To let a fool kiss you is stupid, but to let a kiss fool you is
worse.
In a relationship both parties have to be smart. Be careful what
you wear, don’t be provocative and dress wisely. Keep your hands to yourself,
enjoy the relationship and don’t be controlled by lust. Try not to be alone
together in a room where the door is shut. Purity is the name of the game; and
‘give no appearance of evil’.
1 Corinthians 6:20
‘Glorify God in your body and in your Spirit…’
Fact: Your virginity is one of the few
things that you give away once, and never have the opportunity to get it back. A
stolen moment of pleasure is not worth days or weeks of worry and a lifetime of
regret.
Sex is like a fire; the same flame that warms a home can burn it
down. God’s proper place and time for sex is in the context of
marriage.
Think: Have I mistaken love for lust? Love
waits for marriage.
More Info: Proverbs 5, Matthew 5:27,28, 6:33,
15:19,20, Romans 6:15-23, 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Galatians 5:16-21,Colossians
3:5-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-6, 1 Timothy 5:1-2.
22. FORGIVE or you will be SORRY!
Question
and answer: “I hate
apologising, it is so embarrassing. Do I have to do it?”
It can be
embarrassing, but God does want us to be humble. It is important for us to admit
it when we are wrong and to set the record straight. When we understand that God
will require us to apologise, it does help us think twice before we do or say
something stupid.
Matthew 6:14-15 ‘If you forgive men when they sin
against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not
forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your
sins’
Forgiveness is a gift we receive from God that we don’t
deserve; Therefore, forgiveness is a gift we give to others that they don’t
deserve.
Forgiveness includes giving up all emotional claims for
compensation and ceasing to feel resentment after a wrong has happened. After
forgiving someone, you will still recall painful memories. Remind yourself that
you have forgiven, and choose to think about something else. Pray for those
concerned and eventually your anger will subside.
Fact: Music and films can stir our emotions
to make us feel good or bad. Forgiveness is not a feeling, but a choice. We
choose to forgive.
We forgive because God commands us to, and for medical
reasons! Un-forgiveness breeds resentment, bitterness etc, this has been proven
to lead to physical illness. Un-forgiveness hurts others and can lead us into
sinful habits to escape our own pain.
If we do not forgive others, God
will not forgive us! Matthew 6:12. We continually ask God to forgive us, often
for the same sin, so be forgiving when someone keeps offending you. Treat others
like God treats you.
Wisdom: If your fellowship with another
believer has been broken, unless you forgive/confess and seek restoration, your
right standing before God will be compromised. Matthew 5:23-24, Luke 7:41-47.
Resolve the situation as soon as possible.
Think: Do
I need to apologise to someone or make amends?
A circle of apology should
be extended to those people who were involved within the circle of offence.
Therefore if we have made a public mistake or caused offence then a public
apology needs to be made.
More Info: Matthew
18:21-22, Mark 11:25, Luke 15:11-31, 17:3,4, 1 Corinthians 13:4-5, 2 Corinthians
2:5-11, 1 Peter 4:8. The story of Joseph, Genesis 45-50.
23. Knowing your ENEMY the DEVIL
Question
and answers: “So this devil,
does he have horns and carry a pitchfork?”
To be honest I have never
seen him, but I have seen his destruction in mankind; murders, abortion, rape,
violence, anger, hatred, racism, prejudice, etc. All evil is incited by the
devil. Jesus said he is the thief who has come to steal, kill and destroy, John
10:10.
1 John 3:8
‘Jesus came to destroy the works of the evil one’
Fact: The devil has many names, for
example, Satan, evil one, liar, deceiver, accuser and adversary. Jesus defeated
the devil on the cross.
Satan works to undermine the believer’s
relationship with God and others. He uses the media, our anger, divisions in the
church, our tongue, and the unconverted, in fact he uses anything. But the devil
cannot be blamed for everything; sometimes we are our own worst enemy. Our
sinful desires, lack of self-discipline and self-control can give our enemy a
legal right to cause problems in our lives. Always remember that the Holy Spirit
who is in you is stronger than the devil 1 John 4:4.
Wisdom: When countries go to war, the
opponents examine each other’s weak and strong points to know where to strike
next. We need to be aware of the enemy’s tactics so we can put up a strong
defence.
1 Peter 5:8, 9 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary
the devil walks about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Resist him
steadfast in the faith…”
Think: The
devil is the father of lies; he is a deceiver. The serpent tempted Adam and Eve
to sin, by showing that the fruit looked good and would taste nice. Today demons
tempt us by our senses, touch, taste and a look. Before you give in to
temptation, ask yourself what will it cost you in the long term? Our sin can
break our relationship with God, and it breaks down trust with other
people.
Fact: When
Jesus returns, Satan’s works will be defeated and he will ultimately be cast
into the lake of fire Revelation 12:9-11, 20:10.
More Info: Job 1:6,7, Isaiah 14:12-16, Ezekiel
28:12-19, Zechariah 3, Matthew 4:8,9, Mark 4:15, Luke 4:3,6,9, John 13:2,14:30,
Acts 5:3-10, 2 Corinthians 11:14, 2 Corinthians 12:7, Ephesians 6:11, Colossians
2:15, 1 Thessalonians 2:18, 3:5, 2 Timothy 2:26, Hebrews 2:9,14,15, 1 John
5:19.
Names: Matthew 12:24, 13:19, 13:39, John
8:44, 12:31,14:30, 2 Corinthians 4:4, Ephesians 2:2, 6:12, 1 Thess. 3:5, Hebrews
2:14, Revelation 9:11, 12:7-10, 20:2,10.
Question
and answers: “So this devil,
does he have horns and carry a pitchfork?”
To be honest I have never
seen him, but I have seen his destruction in mankind; murders, abortion, rape,
violence, anger, hatred, racism, prejudice, etc. All evil is incited by the
devil. Jesus said he is the thief who has come to steal, kill and destroy, John
10:10.
1 John 3:8
‘Jesus came to destroy the works of the evil one’
Fact: The devil has many names, for
example, Satan, evil one, liar, deceiver, accuser and adversary. Jesus defeated
the devil on the cross.
Satan works to undermine the believer’s
relationship with God and others. He uses the media, our anger, divisions in the
church, our tongue, and the unconverted, in fact he uses anything. But the devil
cannot be blamed for everything; sometimes we are our own worst enemy. Our
sinful desires, lack of self-discipline and self-control can give our enemy a
legal right to cause problems in our lives. Always remember that the Holy Spirit
who is in you is stronger than the devil 1 John 4:4.
Wisdom: When countries go to war, the
opponents examine each other’s weak and strong points to know where to strike
next. We need to be aware of the enemy’s tactics so we can put up a strong
defence.
1 Peter 5:8, 9 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary
the devil walks about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Resist him
steadfast in the faith…”
Think: The
devil is the father of lies; he is a deceiver. The serpent tempted Adam and Eve
to sin, by showing that the fruit looked good and would taste nice. Today demons
tempt us by our senses, touch, taste and a look. Before you give in to
temptation, ask yourself what will it cost you in the long term? Our sin can
break our relationship with God, and it breaks down trust with other
people.
Fact: When
Jesus returns, Satan’s works will be defeated and he will ultimately be cast
into the lake of fire Revelation 12:9-11, 20:10.
More Info: Job 1:6,7, Isaiah 14:12-16, Ezekiel
28:12-19, Zechariah 3, Matthew 4:8,9, Mark 4:15, Luke 4:3,6,9, John 13:2,14:30,
Acts 5:3-10, 2 Corinthians 11:14, 2 Corinthians 12:7, Ephesians 6:11, Colossians
2:15, 1 Thessalonians 2:18, 3:5, 2 Timothy 2:26, Hebrews 2:9,14,15, 1 John
5:19.
Names: Matthew 12:24, 13:19, 13:39, John
8:44, 12:31,14:30, 2 Corinthians 4:4, Ephesians 2:2, 6:12, 1 Thess. 3:5, Hebrews
2:14, Revelation 9:11, 12:7-10, 20:2,10.
24. STANDING our GROUND and using our WEAPONS
Question
and answer: “The devil is
our enemy, so what weapons do we have to fight with?”
The great news is
that we are on the winning side, but we should never become complacent. Our
spiritual weapons are the word of God (the Bible), self-discipline, prayer in
the Holy Spirit, praise, the name of Jesus, our testimony, His blood and our
spiritual armour.
Revelations 12:11 ‘They
overcame him (Devil) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their
testimony…’
In the
Bible there is a picture of Christians as soldiers of Christ; we have been
enlisted into God’s army. In a sense we have the latest technology, as our
weapons are proven as superior over our enemy the Devil 2 Timothy
2:3-4.
Wisdom: If we use the wrong tactics, then we may lose some ground.
Our weapons: The word of God is
seen as a sword Hebrews 4:12. When Jesus was in the wilderness for forty days,
He kept on quoting the Scriptures to the Devil (Luke
4:1-13).Self-discipline. If you’re unsure if ‘it’ is a sin,
play safe and do not do it. Praise and worship is
also seen as a two edged sword in your hand Psalm 149:6. The Devil hates praise
going to God, - he even wanted Jesus to bow down and worship him! Luke
4:7.Jesus is the name over all; He defeated Satan on the cross of Calvary
Philippians 2:10, Colossians 2:15. We can also plead the blood
of Jesus over our lives. The
blood is like a covering that Satan fears. Exodus 12:21-30, Matthew 26:28, John
19:34, Hebrews 9-11. We have spiritual armour. We have to walk in truth, faith,
righteousness, peace, prayer and stand on the word of God Ephesians 6:10-18.
Always remember that the Holy Spirit who is in you is stronger than the Devil,
so continually submit and obey Him 1 John 4:4.
1 John 3:8 ‘Jesus came
to destroy the works of the evil one’
Fact: If
you habitually sin, it will give the devil a legal stronghold in your life. The
problem will only get worse, until you repent.
Wisdom: Often
when we get discouraged we don’t want to read the Bible, pray or worship God.
The devil is trying to defeat us, so make sure you press in when the going gets
tough. Fight back, and hit him hard!
Think: Do
I use my weapons of warfare often enough?
More Info: Zechariah
3, Romans 12:1,21, 1 Corinthians 6:12, Ephesians 6:12. .
Question
and answer: “The devil is
our enemy, so what weapons do we have to fight with?”
The great news is
that we are on the winning side, but we should never become complacent. Our
spiritual weapons are the word of God (the Bible), self-discipline, prayer in
the Holy Spirit, praise, the name of Jesus, our testimony, His blood and our
spiritual armour.
Revelations 12:11 ‘They
overcame him (Devil) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their
testimony…’
In the
Bible there is a picture of Christians as soldiers of Christ; we have been
enlisted into God’s army. In a sense we have the latest technology, as our
weapons are proven as superior over our enemy the Devil 2 Timothy
2:3-4.
Wisdom: If we use the wrong tactics, then we may lose some ground.
Our weapons: The word of God is
seen as a sword Hebrews 4:12. When Jesus was in the wilderness for forty days,
He kept on quoting the Scriptures to the Devil (Luke
4:1-13).Self-discipline. If you’re unsure if ‘it’ is a sin,
play safe and do not do it. Praise and worship is
also seen as a two edged sword in your hand Psalm 149:6. The Devil hates praise
going to God, - he even wanted Jesus to bow down and worship him! Luke
4:7.Jesus is the name over all; He defeated Satan on the cross of Calvary
Philippians 2:10, Colossians 2:15. We can also plead the blood
of Jesus over our lives. The
blood is like a covering that Satan fears. Exodus 12:21-30, Matthew 26:28, John
19:34, Hebrews 9-11. We have spiritual armour. We have to walk in truth, faith,
righteousness, peace, prayer and stand on the word of God Ephesians 6:10-18.
Always remember that the Holy Spirit who is in you is stronger than the Devil,
so continually submit and obey Him 1 John 4:4.
1 John 3:8 ‘Jesus came
to destroy the works of the evil one’
Fact: If
you habitually sin, it will give the devil a legal stronghold in your life. The
problem will only get worse, until you repent.
Wisdom: Often
when we get discouraged we don’t want to read the Bible, pray or worship God.
The devil is trying to defeat us, so make sure you press in when the going gets
tough. Fight back, and hit him hard!
Think: Do
I use my weapons of warfare often enough?
More Info: Zechariah
3, Romans 12:1,21, 1 Corinthians 6:12, Ephesians 6:12. .
25. Learning to RESIST TEMPTATIONS.
Question
and answer: “What exactly is
a temptation and how will I know when I’m being tempted?”
A
temptation is a thought, a look or a suggestion, that if indulged in or dwelt
upon will lead you into sin. Jesus taught that if we look at someone to lust
after them it is like adultery with them in our heart Matthew 5:27-28.Temptation
can be subtle and very appealing. If someone offends you, temptation would come
if you think about a way of getting revenge.
Studying the Bible will help
you to understand what is right and wrong, and it will help you resist
temptation. The devil will tempt you as often as he can, especially when you are
weak.
1 Corinthians 10:13 ‘God is faithful; who will not allow you to
be tempted beyond what you are able to bear, but with the temptation will also
make a way of escape that you may be able to bear
it’
Fact: Life
is full of choices: You choose to sin, or be holy Genesis 4:7.
Temptation
always looks, feels, or tastes good. If you know that a film, which contains
sinful material is on TV, you may be tempted to watch it - that is not a sin.
BUT if you watch it wilfully, knowing that it contains bad material, then it is
sin. It is not edifying or glorifying to God. Ask yourself ‘what would Jesus
do?’ Practise the presence of Christ.
Wisdom: When
temptation comes, reject it, and refuse to dwell upon it.
The enemy will
try to tempt you by planting bad thoughts in your mind. Fight back by
proclaiming, “The Lord rebuke you Satan, I do not receive these thoughts and
will not accept them. You are defeated; I plead the blood of my Lord Jesus
Christ over my mind.” Zechariah 3, Romans 16:20, Colossians 2:15, Revelation
20:10, Philippians 4:8.
Think: What are my weak points and what am I
going to do about it?
Sin, if entertained, has consequences. A fence on a
cliff edge may seem to spoil your view, yet it also protects you from falling to
your death! ‘The wages of sin is death’ Romans 6:23.
More
Info: Genesis 39:2-12,
Numbers 32:23, Isaiah 41:10, Matthew 26:41, Luke 10:19, John 8:31,32, 2
Corinthians 9:8, Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 4:22-24, 6:13, Philippians 2:12,
3:12-14, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Titus 3:3-7, Hebrews 4:15,16, 12:1, 2 Peter 1:3, 1
John 3:3-12, Jude 20,21.
Question
and answer: “What exactly is
a temptation and how will I know when I’m being tempted?”
A
temptation is a thought, a look or a suggestion, that if indulged in or dwelt
upon will lead you into sin. Jesus taught that if we look at someone to lust
after them it is like adultery with them in our heart Matthew 5:27-28.Temptation
can be subtle and very appealing. If someone offends you, temptation would come
if you think about a way of getting revenge.
Studying the Bible will help
you to understand what is right and wrong, and it will help you resist
temptation. The devil will tempt you as often as he can, especially when you are
weak.
1 Corinthians 10:13 ‘God is faithful; who will not allow you to
be tempted beyond what you are able to bear, but with the temptation will also
make a way of escape that you may be able to bear
it’
Fact: Life
is full of choices: You choose to sin, or be holy Genesis 4:7.
Temptation
always looks, feels, or tastes good. If you know that a film, which contains
sinful material is on TV, you may be tempted to watch it - that is not a sin.
BUT if you watch it wilfully, knowing that it contains bad material, then it is
sin. It is not edifying or glorifying to God. Ask yourself ‘what would Jesus
do?’ Practise the presence of Christ.
Wisdom: When
temptation comes, reject it, and refuse to dwell upon it.
The enemy will
try to tempt you by planting bad thoughts in your mind. Fight back by
proclaiming, “The Lord rebuke you Satan, I do not receive these thoughts and
will not accept them. You are defeated; I plead the blood of my Lord Jesus
Christ over my mind.” Zechariah 3, Romans 16:20, Colossians 2:15, Revelation
20:10, Philippians 4:8.
Think: What are my weak points and what am I
going to do about it?
Sin, if entertained, has consequences. A fence on a
cliff edge may seem to spoil your view, yet it also protects you from falling to
your death! ‘The wages of sin is death’ Romans 6:23.
More
Info: Genesis 39:2-12,
Numbers 32:23, Isaiah 41:10, Matthew 26:41, Luke 10:19, John 8:31,32, 2
Corinthians 9:8, Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 4:22-24, 6:13, Philippians 2:12,
3:12-14, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Titus 3:3-7, Hebrews 4:15,16, 12:1, 2 Peter 1:3, 1
John 3:3-12, Jude 20,21.
26. DRUGS, ALCOHOL and SUBSTANCE ABUSE.
Question
and answer: “So what makes
these substances wrong?”
Anything that damages your
body, or puts you in a state where you are unable to think or act properly, is
clearly wrong. It has been proven that smoking, taking certain drugs and
drinking excessively can kill you. God says, “You shall not murder” (kill)
Exodus 20:13. Whether you kill others or yourself, it is wrong and therefore
should not be done.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ‘Your body is the temple of
the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body’
Most
ungodly habits like smoking, drugs, and drinking are very expensive and can lead
you into debt, and on a slippery downward slope.
Have
you ever seen a drug abuser or an alcoholic? Would you like to end up like them?
There is hope for anybody with an addiction as God can do all things. Certain
things may be legal, but are they moral or godly?
Wisdom: Be over cautious if you are in doubt
whether something is right or wrong. Stay safe, rather than sorry. If you make a
mistake, then repent.
“How much alcohol is too much?” To be honest I
don’t know because alcohol affects different people in various ways. Drinking
socially has been the downfall of many people, and we are warned not to
associate with believers who are drunkards, 1 Corinthians 5:11, Proverbs
23:19,20, Ephesians 4:17-24.
If you force someone to go
for a drink with you, then you are in big trouble Habakkuk 2:15. If you
encourage a weaker brother/sister to go drinking with you, you could be leading
them into sin! 1 Corinthians 8:9-13.
Proverbs 20:1 ‘Wine is a mocker,
intoxicating drink arouses brawling and whoever is led astray by them is not
wise’
Fact: Most ungodly habits are very
difficult to stop, so don’t start one.
Certain establishments are best
avoided so that you will not be tempted to fall under peer pressure. Any fool
can get drunk, smoke or take drugs, but it takes a man or a woman of God to say
no.
Think: Am I
knowingly harming myself in any environment that I go to?
More
Info: Genesis 9:20-23,
19:30-38, Proverbs 23:29-35, Isaiah 28:1-4, 7-8, Luke 21:34, Romans 6:16, 1 Cor.
6:9-11, Gal. 5:16, Eph. 5:18, Heb. 4:15-16.
Question
and answer: “So what makes
these substances wrong?”
Anything that damages your
body, or puts you in a state where you are unable to think or act properly, is
clearly wrong. It has been proven that smoking, taking certain drugs and
drinking excessively can kill you. God says, “You shall not murder” (kill)
Exodus 20:13. Whether you kill others or yourself, it is wrong and therefore
should not be done.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ‘Your body is the temple of
the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body’
Most
ungodly habits like smoking, drugs, and drinking are very expensive and can lead
you into debt, and on a slippery downward slope.
Have
you ever seen a drug abuser or an alcoholic? Would you like to end up like them?
There is hope for anybody with an addiction as God can do all things. Certain
things may be legal, but are they moral or godly?
Wisdom: Be over cautious if you are in doubt
whether something is right or wrong. Stay safe, rather than sorry. If you make a
mistake, then repent.
“How much alcohol is too much?” To be honest I
don’t know because alcohol affects different people in various ways. Drinking
socially has been the downfall of many people, and we are warned not to
associate with believers who are drunkards, 1 Corinthians 5:11, Proverbs
23:19,20, Ephesians 4:17-24.
If you force someone to go
for a drink with you, then you are in big trouble Habakkuk 2:15. If you
encourage a weaker brother/sister to go drinking with you, you could be leading
them into sin! 1 Corinthians 8:9-13.
Proverbs 20:1 ‘Wine is a mocker,
intoxicating drink arouses brawling and whoever is led astray by them is not
wise’
Fact: Most ungodly habits are very
difficult to stop, so don’t start one.
Certain establishments are best
avoided so that you will not be tempted to fall under peer pressure. Any fool
can get drunk, smoke or take drugs, but it takes a man or a woman of God to say
no.
Think: Am I
knowingly harming myself in any environment that I go to?
More
Info: Genesis 9:20-23,
19:30-38, Proverbs 23:29-35, Isaiah 28:1-4, 7-8, Luke 21:34, Romans 6:16, 1 Cor.
6:9-11, Gal. 5:16, Eph. 5:18, Heb. 4:15-16.
27. How to HANDLE my FINANCES
Question
and answer: “My finances are
getting out of control, what can I do?”
We all need to be responsible
with that which God has entrusted us, Matthew 25:14-30. If we have money then
indirectly it came from God (Psalm 24:1, 50:10) and therefore should belong to
Him, as He should be our Lord and Master. We should always try and live within
our means. Borrowing money or living on credit is a bad idea. We are warned in
the Bible not to fall into a lifestyle of debt as it leads to poverty and
bondage.
Romans 13:8
‘Owe no one anything, except to love one another…’
There
are some occasions when believers may need to borrow money, e.g. university
fees, hospital bills, a mortgage. We are not under bondage in impossible
situations. Sadly many people by no fault of their own live below the poverty
line.
Wisdom: Learn to control your money before it
starts to control you.
We need to understand the difference between our
needs and our wants. Our needs are our essentials, food, clothing, a place to
live, etc (Matthew 6:25-34, Philippians 4:19). Our wants are clearly things we
do not need, a new faster car, more jewellery and expensive designer clothes,
etc. 1 John 2:15-17. Being in debt is a financial curse; to see it broken you
must tithe, Malachi 3:6-11. By giving back to God you are toning your wallet,
walking in obedience and exercising your heart, Matthew 6:21. Learn good
habits.
Fact: Debt
is living beyond your means, and sometimes can be sign of greed. It is the
opposite of giving. Debt is emptying your future to fill up your present. Giving
is empting your present to fill up your future Matthew 6:19-24, Luke
14:28-30.
If you live in debt then it could be difficult for the Lord to
fully use you, e.g. you might not be able to go on a mission trip or you could
be unable to be a financial blessing to someone.
Credit
cards give a false sense of wealth and purchases appear cheaper, but it will
come back to haunt you! Proverbs 22:7, Galatians 6:7. You should only buy items
that you have the cash for or use a debit card that cannot exceed your bank
limit, Luke 9:23. If you are in debt, then your first priority is to pay it off,
Matthew 22:21. Then start by saving (even a little) regularly and
consistently.
Think: Am
I responsible or irresponsible with money?
More Info: Deuteronomy
28:12b, Proverbs 3:9-10, 10:22, 11:15, 24-25, 19:17, Matthew 6:1-4, Luke 6:38,
18:24, 21:1-4, 1 Corinthians 16:1-3, 2 Corinthians 9:6-11,1 Tim.
6:6-10.
Question
and answer: “My finances are
getting out of control, what can I do?”
We all need to be responsible
with that which God has entrusted us, Matthew 25:14-30. If we have money then
indirectly it came from God (Psalm 24:1, 50:10) and therefore should belong to
Him, as He should be our Lord and Master. We should always try and live within
our means. Borrowing money or living on credit is a bad idea. We are warned in
the Bible not to fall into a lifestyle of debt as it leads to poverty and
bondage.
Romans 13:8
‘Owe no one anything, except to love one another…’
There
are some occasions when believers may need to borrow money, e.g. university
fees, hospital bills, a mortgage. We are not under bondage in impossible
situations. Sadly many people by no fault of their own live below the poverty
line.
Wisdom: Learn to control your money before it
starts to control you.
We need to understand the difference between our
needs and our wants. Our needs are our essentials, food, clothing, a place to
live, etc (Matthew 6:25-34, Philippians 4:19). Our wants are clearly things we
do not need, a new faster car, more jewellery and expensive designer clothes,
etc. 1 John 2:15-17. Being in debt is a financial curse; to see it broken you
must tithe, Malachi 3:6-11. By giving back to God you are toning your wallet,
walking in obedience and exercising your heart, Matthew 6:21. Learn good
habits.
Fact: Debt
is living beyond your means, and sometimes can be sign of greed. It is the
opposite of giving. Debt is emptying your future to fill up your present. Giving
is empting your present to fill up your future Matthew 6:19-24, Luke
14:28-30.
If you live in debt then it could be difficult for the Lord to
fully use you, e.g. you might not be able to go on a mission trip or you could
be unable to be a financial blessing to someone.
Credit
cards give a false sense of wealth and purchases appear cheaper, but it will
come back to haunt you! Proverbs 22:7, Galatians 6:7. You should only buy items
that you have the cash for or use a debit card that cannot exceed your bank
limit, Luke 9:23. If you are in debt, then your first priority is to pay it off,
Matthew 22:21. Then start by saving (even a little) regularly and
consistently.
Think: Am
I responsible or irresponsible with money?
More Info: Deuteronomy
28:12b, Proverbs 3:9-10, 10:22, 11:15, 24-25, 19:17, Matthew 6:1-4, Luke 6:38,
18:24, 21:1-4, 1 Corinthians 16:1-3, 2 Corinthians 9:6-11,1 Tim.
6:6-10.
28. TITHES and OFFERINGS.
Question
and answer: “Why do I need
to give MY money to God?”
Who said it’s your money? When we become a
Christian, we give our whole lives to Jesus, including our money. The Bible
shows that you should give back at least 10% of your money to God, and this is
called a ‘tithe’. The money usually goes to the church that you attend and helps
pay the Minister’s/Evangelist’s wage. As they give to us spiritually, we give
back practically 1 Corinthians 9:11. The money is also used to maintain the
church building, and some should go to missionaries.
Fact: The word 'tithe' in Hebrew means 'one
tenth'.
Matthew 6:21 ‘Where your treasure is, there your heart will be
also’
We live in a materialistic world Luke 12:15. Our tithe proves
that we love God more than money. If we do not give a tithe, it proves that our
commitment to God is very shallow. The Bible says that it is ‘hard for the rich
to enter the Kingdom of God’ Luke 18:24. It is hard if we love money more than
God. Usually you should give your tithe when you get paid, be it weekly or
monthly 1 Corinthians 16:1-3.
Wisdom: Investments
in God’s eternal Kingdom never fail.
An offering is anything that you
give to God’s work out of love for Him, or by His guidance, which is given as
well as your tithe. In fact an offering may not just be money, but could be
food, an object, or in fact pretty much anything. Your tithe is a measure of
your obedience; an offering is a measure of your generosity or
sacrifice.
There is a warning and a promise in Malachi 3:6-11, where God
tells us to bring the whole tithe into the storehouse and then we will see huge
blessings on our life. God even challenges us to prove Him! He will rebuke the
devourer for our sakes and open the windows of heaven over us!
But God
also warns that we are cursed if we do not bring our tithes and offerings to Him
and He even calls these people thieves, because they have robbed God.
We
should also make sure that we are sowing our financial seeds on good ground. If
you gave a farmer seed and he threw it on concrete, would you expect a harvest?
Likewise, we should make sure our financial seed goes to good ground where
Christian leaders are producing fruit for God’s glory. Our financial seeds can
also go to Christian leaders, missionaries and ministries all over the world,
because God gave the tithe to His Levites (those who work for Him) Numbers
18:26. The Kingdom of God is bigger than a local church, which sometimes
neglects the world for a smaller, personal vision, (Matthew
28:19-20).
Think: Have you been stealing from God? Are
you giving your tithe?
More Info: Genesis
14:17-20, Genesis 28:20-22, Exodus 35:5,21,22,29, Leviticus 27:30-33, 2
Chronicles 35:1-19, Proverbs 3:9,10, 11:24,25, 19:17, 22:9, Matthew 6:1-4, 10:8,
19:16-26. Luke 21:1-4, Galatians 6:7, Philippians 4:19, 1 Timothy 6:7, Hebrews
7:2.
Question
and answer: “Why do I need
to give MY money to God?”
Who said it’s your money? When we become a
Christian, we give our whole lives to Jesus, including our money. The Bible
shows that you should give back at least 10% of your money to God, and this is
called a ‘tithe’. The money usually goes to the church that you attend and helps
pay the Minister’s/Evangelist’s wage. As they give to us spiritually, we give
back practically 1 Corinthians 9:11. The money is also used to maintain the
church building, and some should go to missionaries.
Fact: The word 'tithe' in Hebrew means 'one
tenth'.
Matthew 6:21 ‘Where your treasure is, there your heart will be
also’
We live in a materialistic world Luke 12:15. Our tithe proves
that we love God more than money. If we do not give a tithe, it proves that our
commitment to God is very shallow. The Bible says that it is ‘hard for the rich
to enter the Kingdom of God’ Luke 18:24. It is hard if we love money more than
God. Usually you should give your tithe when you get paid, be it weekly or
monthly 1 Corinthians 16:1-3.
Wisdom: Investments
in God’s eternal Kingdom never fail.
An offering is anything that you
give to God’s work out of love for Him, or by His guidance, which is given as
well as your tithe. In fact an offering may not just be money, but could be
food, an object, or in fact pretty much anything. Your tithe is a measure of
your obedience; an offering is a measure of your generosity or
sacrifice.
There is a warning and a promise in Malachi 3:6-11, where God
tells us to bring the whole tithe into the storehouse and then we will see huge
blessings on our life. God even challenges us to prove Him! He will rebuke the
devourer for our sakes and open the windows of heaven over us!
But God
also warns that we are cursed if we do not bring our tithes and offerings to Him
and He even calls these people thieves, because they have robbed God.
We
should also make sure that we are sowing our financial seeds on good ground. If
you gave a farmer seed and he threw it on concrete, would you expect a harvest?
Likewise, we should make sure our financial seed goes to good ground where
Christian leaders are producing fruit for God’s glory. Our financial seeds can
also go to Christian leaders, missionaries and ministries all over the world,
because God gave the tithe to His Levites (those who work for Him) Numbers
18:26. The Kingdom of God is bigger than a local church, which sometimes
neglects the world for a smaller, personal vision, (Matthew
28:19-20).
Think: Have you been stealing from God? Are
you giving your tithe?
More Info: Genesis
14:17-20, Genesis 28:20-22, Exodus 35:5,21,22,29, Leviticus 27:30-33, 2
Chronicles 35:1-19, Proverbs 3:9,10, 11:24,25, 19:17, 22:9, Matthew 6:1-4, 10:8,
19:16-26. Luke 21:1-4, Galatians 6:7, Philippians 4:19, 1 Timothy 6:7, Hebrews
7:2.
29. A GENEROUS GIVER
Question
and answer: “I understand
that I have to give money to God’s work, but can I be happy whilst doing
it?
You have a choice to
give out of compulsion, or because it is an expression of your love and devotion
towards God.
2 Corinthians 9:8 ‘God is able to make all grace abound
towards you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have
abundance for every good work’
We can liken our life to that of a
manager or a good steward, one who looks after their master’s possessions. It
should not be ‘my’ property, but His. God will bless you, in order for you to be
a blessing. Trust God to direct and guide you how to use your resources for His
Kingdom.
Fact: People often buy things they don’t
need, to impress people they don’t like. You don’t need to seek man’s approval.
2 Corinthians 3:1, 10:18.
Greed can cause us to be so
preoccupied with secular pursuits that we can forget why we are here. God gives
us the ability to earn money, but He wants us to love Him, not money. Money can
be stolen, and objects can corrode. You cannot take it with you when you die;
look what happened to the Egyptian Pharaohs’ tombs. If you invest financially in
eternal issues, you will reap earthly and heavenly rewards Deut. 8:18, Matthew
6:20.
Wisdom: Be
committed to give with a right attitude. Give regularly, specifically,
proportionately and with a big smile on your face.
There is a spiritual
law of sowing and reaping Galatians 6:7-10, Luke 6:38. If you sow generously
into God’s work, He will generously give back to you. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 says,
‘If you sow sparingly then you will reap sparingly and if you sow bountifully
you will reap bountifully.’
If you try to grow a lawn with very little
seed, don’t be surprised when it looks tatty. If you’re not tithing according to
God’s word, the devourer has a legal right to hinder you and your financial
“lawn” will be in tatters. Malachi 3:6-11.
Think: Am
I a joyful giver to God’s work, or am I an unhappy scrooge?
More
Info: Deuteronomy 15:7-8, 1
Chronicles 29:6,9, Proverbs 11:24,25, 22:9, 23:4, Ecclesiastes 11:1, Matthew
6:33, 19:16-26, 25:35,40, Luke 16:10-13, Romans 12:8, 13:8, 2 Corinthians 8:1-9,
Colossians 3:23, 1 Timothy 6:6,10, 17-19, 2 Tim. 3:2,1 John 3:16-18.
Question
and answer: “I understand
that I have to give money to God’s work, but can I be happy whilst doing
it?
You have a choice to
give out of compulsion, or because it is an expression of your love and devotion
towards God.
2 Corinthians 9:8 ‘God is able to make all grace abound
towards you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have
abundance for every good work’
We can liken our life to that of a
manager or a good steward, one who looks after their master’s possessions. It
should not be ‘my’ property, but His. God will bless you, in order for you to be
a blessing. Trust God to direct and guide you how to use your resources for His
Kingdom.
Fact: People often buy things they don’t
need, to impress people they don’t like. You don’t need to seek man’s approval.
2 Corinthians 3:1, 10:18.
Greed can cause us to be so
preoccupied with secular pursuits that we can forget why we are here. God gives
us the ability to earn money, but He wants us to love Him, not money. Money can
be stolen, and objects can corrode. You cannot take it with you when you die;
look what happened to the Egyptian Pharaohs’ tombs. If you invest financially in
eternal issues, you will reap earthly and heavenly rewards Deut. 8:18, Matthew
6:20.
Wisdom: Be
committed to give with a right attitude. Give regularly, specifically,
proportionately and with a big smile on your face.
There is a spiritual
law of sowing and reaping Galatians 6:7-10, Luke 6:38. If you sow generously
into God’s work, He will generously give back to you. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 says,
‘If you sow sparingly then you will reap sparingly and if you sow bountifully
you will reap bountifully.’
If you try to grow a lawn with very little
seed, don’t be surprised when it looks tatty. If you’re not tithing according to
God’s word, the devourer has a legal right to hinder you and your financial
“lawn” will be in tatters. Malachi 3:6-11.
Think: Am
I a joyful giver to God’s work, or am I an unhappy scrooge?
More
Info: Deuteronomy 15:7-8, 1
Chronicles 29:6,9, Proverbs 11:24,25, 22:9, 23:4, Ecclesiastes 11:1, Matthew
6:33, 19:16-26, 25:35,40, Luke 16:10-13, Romans 12:8, 13:8, 2 Corinthians 8:1-9,
Colossians 3:23, 1 Timothy 6:6,10, 17-19, 2 Tim. 3:2,1 John 3:16-18.
30. EVANGELISM: Telling other PEOPLE about Jesus
Question
and answer: “Is evangelism
for professionals, or can I get involved?”
Evangelism is simply telling
people about the gospel. You do it when you tell people how Jesus has changed
your life. You are not a sales person, but someone who knows that God is real
and can change people’s lives. You may not be an evangelist, but you have been
called to witness.
Wisdom: If
you saw a house on fire, you would raise an alarm. People’s eternal lives are on
the verge of hell, should you not warn them?
Mark 16:15 ‘Go into all
the world and preach the gospel’
It can be very scary, sharing your
faith, but the more you share, the easier it will become. Ask God for divine
appointments and ask for boldness like the Apostles had Acts 4:13, 28-31. Jesus
never lost sight of where He came from and where He was heading - neither must
we.
Fact: The
gospel is the good news about Jesus Christ.
In some countries around the
world, people are tortured and even killed for being a Christian. In all
probability your country has religious freedom; take advantage of this situation
and be a good witness for Christ. If Jesus is the world’s best news, then you
should desire to tell people about Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide and help
you.
Romans 1:16 ‘I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ as it is
the power of God to salvation for everyone who
believes’
Think: Do I witness enough? Am I concerned
about people’s souls?
Never keep on to people about Jesus and don’t be
rude. If you quote the Bible when sharing, it can help prove that the word is
relevant today. Remember that your lifestyle will always speak louder than your
words. You can also distribute tracts (pamphlets about salvation) or just leave
them prayerfully in an appropriate place where people will find them and read
them at their leisure.
More Info: Proverbs
11:30, Matthew, 28:19,20, Mark 16:15,16, Luke 19:10, John 16:8, Acts 1:8,
8:26-39, 17:6, Romans 1:15, 10:13,14, 1 Corinthians 3:6-11, 10:31, 1 Timothy
2:4, 2 Timothy 4:5, Philemon 6, Hebrews 13:5,6, 1 Peter 3:15, 1 John 4:18.
Question
and answer: “Is evangelism
for professionals, or can I get involved?”
Evangelism is simply telling
people about the gospel. You do it when you tell people how Jesus has changed
your life. You are not a sales person, but someone who knows that God is real
and can change people’s lives. You may not be an evangelist, but you have been
called to witness.
Wisdom: If
you saw a house on fire, you would raise an alarm. People’s eternal lives are on
the verge of hell, should you not warn them?
Mark 16:15 ‘Go into all
the world and preach the gospel’
It can be very scary, sharing your
faith, but the more you share, the easier it will become. Ask God for divine
appointments and ask for boldness like the Apostles had Acts 4:13, 28-31. Jesus
never lost sight of where He came from and where He was heading - neither must
we.
Fact: The
gospel is the good news about Jesus Christ.
In some countries around the
world, people are tortured and even killed for being a Christian. In all
probability your country has religious freedom; take advantage of this situation
and be a good witness for Christ. If Jesus is the world’s best news, then you
should desire to tell people about Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide and help
you.
Romans 1:16 ‘I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ as it is
the power of God to salvation for everyone who
believes’
Think: Do I witness enough? Am I concerned
about people’s souls?
Never keep on to people about Jesus and don’t be
rude. If you quote the Bible when sharing, it can help prove that the word is
relevant today. Remember that your lifestyle will always speak louder than your
words. You can also distribute tracts (pamphlets about salvation) or just leave
them prayerfully in an appropriate place where people will find them and read
them at their leisure.
More Info: Proverbs
11:30, Matthew, 28:19,20, Mark 16:15,16, Luke 19:10, John 16:8, Acts 1:8,
8:26-39, 17:6, Romans 1:15, 10:13,14, 1 Corinthians 3:6-11, 10:31, 1 Timothy
2:4, 2 Timothy 4:5, Philemon 6, Hebrews 13:5,6, 1 Peter 3:15, 1 John 4:18.
31. MISSION Work
Question
and answer: “Is mission work
the same as evangelism?”
Evangelism is usually witnessing in your own
area or country, mission work is witnessing in another country. Some people
become missionaries and move to another country for many years, others go on
short-term mission trips, perhaps for a few weeks, a month, or a
year.
Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus said, "All Authority has been given to Me
in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations
baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you and lo I am with
you always, even to the end…”
Jesus was the greatest missionary who
ever walked on earth. He left His familiar surroundings (heaven) and identified
with mankind. He learnt their language and culture, and then shared God’s
message.
Wisdom: Don’t allow fear of the unknown to
stop you from moving into God’s plan. There is something worse than failure;
that is to live in the regret of never stepping out in faith, and losing God’s
plan for you.
You could
go on a mission for a few weeks, a year, or even become a missionary. If you are
willing, God will use you. He does not look at your ability, but your
availability. God needs agents that He can send out to preach Acts 1:8, Matthew
28:20. If you are faithful to share the gospel in your own country, God may want
to use you in other nations.
Fact: Every hour approximately 7,000 people die and go to hell.
You may not be called to become a missionary, but you do have responsibilities to pray and give money
to missions. If you are willing to give a few weeks (or even a year) to God, you
could go on a mission trip, and be sure it will change your life! When you go on
holiday, you could take some tracts with you to leave them in an appropriate
location and give out as God leads you Matthew 9:38, 10:1-42, Luke 10 1-20, John
4:34-38.
Think: Am I praying and giving to missions? Am I prepared to go?
More
Info: Lamentations 3:27,28,
Isaiah 28:9-10, 55:8, Hosea 4:6, 6:3, Matthew 10:7-8, John 14:15, 15:14, Acts
8:14, 13:1-5, 18:3,18-28, 20:27, Romans 10:15, 1 Timothy 4:12, Revelation
5:9,7:9. The book of Acts is the Holy Spirit empowered mission book.
Question
and answer: “Is mission work
the same as evangelism?”
Evangelism is usually witnessing in your own
area or country, mission work is witnessing in another country. Some people
become missionaries and move to another country for many years, others go on
short-term mission trips, perhaps for a few weeks, a month, or a
year.
Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus said, "All Authority has been given to Me
in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations
baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you and lo I am with
you always, even to the end…”
Jesus was the greatest missionary who
ever walked on earth. He left His familiar surroundings (heaven) and identified
with mankind. He learnt their language and culture, and then shared God’s
message.
Wisdom: Don’t allow fear of the unknown to
stop you from moving into God’s plan. There is something worse than failure;
that is to live in the regret of never stepping out in faith, and losing God’s
plan for you.
You could
go on a mission for a few weeks, a year, or even become a missionary. If you are
willing, God will use you. He does not look at your ability, but your
availability. God needs agents that He can send out to preach Acts 1:8, Matthew
28:20. If you are faithful to share the gospel in your own country, God may want
to use you in other nations.
Fact: Every hour approximately 7,000 people die and go to hell.
You may not be called to become a missionary, but you do have responsibilities to pray and give money
to missions. If you are willing to give a few weeks (or even a year) to God, you
could go on a mission trip, and be sure it will change your life! When you go on
holiday, you could take some tracts with you to leave them in an appropriate
location and give out as God leads you Matthew 9:38, 10:1-42, Luke 10 1-20, John
4:34-38.
Think: Am I praying and giving to missions? Am I prepared to go?
More
Info: Lamentations 3:27,28,
Isaiah 28:9-10, 55:8, Hosea 4:6, 6:3, Matthew 10:7-8, John 14:15, 15:14, Acts
8:14, 13:1-5, 18:3,18-28, 20:27, Romans 10:15, 1 Timothy 4:12, Revelation
5:9,7:9. The book of Acts is the Holy Spirit empowered mission book.
32. A SPIRIT of BOLDNESS.
Question
and answer: “Does this mean
that I can be a brave person?”
Yes, with God’s help and the
anointing of the Holy Spirit we can have a supernatural confidence, assurance
and boldness in Christ Jesus. It will enable us to be more effective when we
preach, witness, or testify, Acts 4:27-33. As we trust more and surrender to
God, our fears will subside.
Acts 4:13 ‘Now when they saw the boldness
of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men,
they marvelled. And they realised that they had been with Jesus’
1
Corinthians 1:26-29, tells us that ‘not many wise are called’. When we are weak
we cannot depend upon ourselves but have to lean more on God to help us, 2
Corinthians 12:9. The wise and proud could say, “Who needs God?” The tower of
Babel is a classic example of man’s pride, Genesis 11:4.
Boldness comes
from God; the more you surrender to the Holy Spirit the more He will come in and
fill you. You will be less afraid of man and have a greater trust in God knowing
that He is sovereign. You have to really follow Jesus and have fellowship with
Him, John 6:47-66, Revelation 3:20. Daily ‘take up your cross and follow Him’
Matthew 16:24. Daniel’s friends refused to bow down to idols and ended up in the
fiery furnace, but God delivered them and then they got a promotion, Daniel
3:13-30.
Wisdom: Give more of yourself to God and be
bolder for Christ.
Romans 1:16 ‘For I am not ashamed of the gospel of
Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes’
When you know who you are
in Christ, a son and an heir and that the Holy Spirit who is in you is stronger
than the devil, (1 John 4:4) then you will become bolder for Christ. Like the
prophets who spoke out against sin, rebuked kings and told them what to do. 1
Kings 18:16-19, 22:6-28, Jeremiah 3:6-14, 37:1-19, Micah 2, Malachi 1, Luke
3:7-20, 11:37-54. You can also be zealous and bold for the things of God,
Matthew 11:12, John 2:13-17.
Fact: There
is a big difference between arrogance and boldness.
Think: Am I bold when it comes to the things
of God?
More Info: Exodus 4:10-17, 12:29-36, Judges
6:11-34, 7:7-21, Proverbs 28:1, 29:25, Ecclesiastes 8:1, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Acts
4:13-21, 29-31, Philippians 1:20, 1 Timothy 3:13.
33. The HEART of the MATTER
Question
and answer: “How can I go
deeper with God?”
Obedience is the key to
spiritual growth. As you spend more time with God in prayer and in His word, you
should sense Him speaking to you. Obey what the Bible tells you and obey Him as
He guides you by His Holy Spirit. Our flesh life, or sinful nature, does hinder
our growth in Christ, so surrender each area of your life to the Holy Spirit and
let Him change you Psalm 51:17, John 3:30. Put God first in your life. We should
love God with all our soul, strength, mind and heart. Mark
12:30.
Proverbs 23:26 'My son, give me your heart, and let your eye
observe My way'
The Bible says our heart is deceitful. What comes out
of our mouth comes from our heart and our treasure is also there Jeremiah 17:9,
Matthew 6:21, 12:35, 15:18. As Christians our heart can be hard, but we need it
to be softened and made pliable, Ezekiel 11:19,
36:26.
Wisdom: If
you give your heart fully to God as an act of obedience, God will guide you and
use you in His Kingdom Jeremiah 18:4-6.
Psalm 34:18 ‘The Lord is near
to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite
spirit'
“I don’t bow down to a wooden idol!” In the West our idols
are not made of wood and stone, but are anything that we put before God. If you
think that money, a career, or a relationship is more important than God, then
you are in danger of your heart becoming cold towards Him Ezekiel 14:3. We need
to unite our heart to fear God, Psalm 86:11. This can only truly be done when we
give God our heart.
Fact: By giving your heart to God you
unreservedly give yourself to Him.
God allows hard situations that help
you get closer to Him. A refiner’s fire removes impurities in molten metal to
produce a valuable product Proverbs 17:3.
Think: Do
I put anything before God? Does He have my whole heart?
More Info: Psalm 57:7, Proverbs
20:27, Songs of Songs 8:6, Isaiah 43:2, 66:2, Malachi 3:2-3, Matthew 5:8, John
14:1,27, Philippians 4:6,7, Colossians 3:15, 1 Thessalonians 2:4, 1 Timothy 1:5,
Titus 2:14, Hebrews 3:15, James 4:7-8, 10:16, 1 Peter 1:5-7.
Question
and answer: “Does this mean
that I can be a brave person?”
Yes, with God’s help and the
anointing of the Holy Spirit we can have a supernatural confidence, assurance
and boldness in Christ Jesus. It will enable us to be more effective when we
preach, witness, or testify, Acts 4:27-33. As we trust more and surrender to
God, our fears will subside.
Acts 4:13 ‘Now when they saw the boldness
of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men,
they marvelled. And they realised that they had been with Jesus’
1
Corinthians 1:26-29, tells us that ‘not many wise are called’. When we are weak
we cannot depend upon ourselves but have to lean more on God to help us, 2
Corinthians 12:9. The wise and proud could say, “Who needs God?” The tower of
Babel is a classic example of man’s pride, Genesis 11:4.
Boldness comes
from God; the more you surrender to the Holy Spirit the more He will come in and
fill you. You will be less afraid of man and have a greater trust in God knowing
that He is sovereign. You have to really follow Jesus and have fellowship with
Him, John 6:47-66, Revelation 3:20. Daily ‘take up your cross and follow Him’
Matthew 16:24. Daniel’s friends refused to bow down to idols and ended up in the
fiery furnace, but God delivered them and then they got a promotion, Daniel
3:13-30.
Wisdom: Give more of yourself to God and be
bolder for Christ.
Romans 1:16 ‘For I am not ashamed of the gospel of
Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes’
When you know who you are
in Christ, a son and an heir and that the Holy Spirit who is in you is stronger
than the devil, (1 John 4:4) then you will become bolder for Christ. Like the
prophets who spoke out against sin, rebuked kings and told them what to do. 1
Kings 18:16-19, 22:6-28, Jeremiah 3:6-14, 37:1-19, Micah 2, Malachi 1, Luke
3:7-20, 11:37-54. You can also be zealous and bold for the things of God,
Matthew 11:12, John 2:13-17.
Fact: There
is a big difference between arrogance and boldness.
Think: Am I bold when it comes to the things
of God?
More Info: Exodus 4:10-17, 12:29-36, Judges
6:11-34, 7:7-21, Proverbs 28:1, 29:25, Ecclesiastes 8:1, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Acts
4:13-21, 29-31, Philippians 1:20, 1 Timothy 3:13.
33. The HEART of the MATTER
Question
and answer: “How can I go
deeper with God?”
Obedience is the key to
spiritual growth. As you spend more time with God in prayer and in His word, you
should sense Him speaking to you. Obey what the Bible tells you and obey Him as
He guides you by His Holy Spirit. Our flesh life, or sinful nature, does hinder
our growth in Christ, so surrender each area of your life to the Holy Spirit and
let Him change you Psalm 51:17, John 3:30. Put God first in your life. We should
love God with all our soul, strength, mind and heart. Mark
12:30.
Proverbs 23:26 'My son, give me your heart, and let your eye
observe My way'
The Bible says our heart is deceitful. What comes out
of our mouth comes from our heart and our treasure is also there Jeremiah 17:9,
Matthew 6:21, 12:35, 15:18. As Christians our heart can be hard, but we need it
to be softened and made pliable, Ezekiel 11:19,
36:26.
Wisdom: If
you give your heart fully to God as an act of obedience, God will guide you and
use you in His Kingdom Jeremiah 18:4-6.
Psalm 34:18 ‘The Lord is near
to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite
spirit'
“I don’t bow down to a wooden idol!” In the West our idols
are not made of wood and stone, but are anything that we put before God. If you
think that money, a career, or a relationship is more important than God, then
you are in danger of your heart becoming cold towards Him Ezekiel 14:3. We need
to unite our heart to fear God, Psalm 86:11. This can only truly be done when we
give God our heart.
Fact: By giving your heart to God you
unreservedly give yourself to Him.
God allows hard situations that help
you get closer to Him. A refiner’s fire removes impurities in molten metal to
produce a valuable product Proverbs 17:3.
Think: Do
I put anything before God? Does He have my whole heart?
More Info: Psalm 57:7, Proverbs
20:27, Songs of Songs 8:6, Isaiah 43:2, 66:2, Malachi 3:2-3, Matthew 5:8, John
14:1,27, Philippians 4:6,7, Colossians 3:15, 1 Thessalonians 2:4, 1 Timothy 1:5,
Titus 2:14, Hebrews 3:15, James 4:7-8, 10:16, 1 Peter 1:5-7.
34. If you add one letter to ANGER you get DANGER
Question and answer: “I get angry often, what can I do?”
You can try not to get angry! Life is full of choices and we have to choose to do the right thing. The more we surrender our will to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to fill and help us, the easier it will be. Ask Him to help you.
Anger in itself is not sinful, if directed for the right reason and motive. We can get angry at sin and how the devil is taking people to hell. But sadly there is also ungodly anger which most people portray, and this is sin. Godly anger can be seen in Jesus when he was grieved at the hardness of the people’s hearts, Mark 3:5. Jesus made a whip and drove the buyers and sellers out of the Temple as they had made His house of prayer into a den of thieves, Matthew 21:12-13, John 2:13-17.
Fact: We can be zealous for God’s Kingdom and concerned for His name.
Ephesians 4:26-27 ‘Be angry and sin not, do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil’
If someone wrongs or offends you, then don’t go blowing your top. If you are normally a calm person, but get really angry once and make a messy scene, everyone will remember it!
Proverbs 19:11 ‘The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, and it is to his glory to overlook a transgression’
Wisdom: Stop and think! Act! Don’t react! Don’t be a fool - keep cool.
Ungodly anger does not solve any problems; it just reveals how much work the Holy Spirit has to do in your life. Now that you have given your life to God, you are under new management, and the old former conduct should not be permitted any more. If your tongue is engaged before your brain, then you could cause pain.
Think: Do I have a problem with anger? Do I react too quickly in a conflict?
If you have a family history of being hot-heads, it does not have to stay that way. You have a new Father and the Holy Spirit wants to help you to be conformed into the image of Jesus.
More Info: 1 Samuel 11:1-6, 1 Kings 11:9, 2 Kings 17:18, Psalms 7:11, Proverbs 10:12, 14:17, 15:1, 27:19, 29:11, 29:22, Ephesians 4:30-32, 1 Peter 4:8.
Question and answer: “I get angry often, what can I do?”
You can try not to get angry! Life is full of choices and we have to choose to do the right thing. The more we surrender our will to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to fill and help us, the easier it will be. Ask Him to help you.
Anger in itself is not sinful, if directed for the right reason and motive. We can get angry at sin and how the devil is taking people to hell. But sadly there is also ungodly anger which most people portray, and this is sin. Godly anger can be seen in Jesus when he was grieved at the hardness of the people’s hearts, Mark 3:5. Jesus made a whip and drove the buyers and sellers out of the Temple as they had made His house of prayer into a den of thieves, Matthew 21:12-13, John 2:13-17.
Fact: We can be zealous for God’s Kingdom and concerned for His name.
Ephesians 4:26-27 ‘Be angry and sin not, do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil’
If someone wrongs or offends you, then don’t go blowing your top. If you are normally a calm person, but get really angry once and make a messy scene, everyone will remember it!
Proverbs 19:11 ‘The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, and it is to his glory to overlook a transgression’
Wisdom: Stop and think! Act! Don’t react! Don’t be a fool - keep cool.
Ungodly anger does not solve any problems; it just reveals how much work the Holy Spirit has to do in your life. Now that you have given your life to God, you are under new management, and the old former conduct should not be permitted any more. If your tongue is engaged before your brain, then you could cause pain.
Think: Do I have a problem with anger? Do I react too quickly in a conflict?
If you have a family history of being hot-heads, it does not have to stay that way. You have a new Father and the Holy Spirit wants to help you to be conformed into the image of Jesus.
More Info: 1 Samuel 11:1-6, 1 Kings 11:9, 2 Kings 17:18, Psalms 7:11, Proverbs 10:12, 14:17, 15:1, 27:19, 29:11, 29:22, Ephesians 4:30-32, 1 Peter 4:8.
35. The FRUIT of the SPIRIT
Question
and answer: “How is this
fruit manifested in my life?”
As we surrender to God and
continually receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit, the fruit of the Spirit
should become a reality in our lives. This is not theory, but a daily experience
in our every day lives. All the fruit is manifested through love, as *fruit is a
singular word, and not the plural, which would be fruits.
Galatians
5:22-23 ‘The *fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control’
We
are commanded by God to bear fruit within our lives Matthew 3:8. People will
know us by our fruits - which are a changed character and lifestyle Matthew
7:16. As we surrender every area to the Holy Spirit, then our old negative ways
will die (1 Corinthians 15:31). As the old ways die, we will produce new fruit;
the fruit of the Spirit John 12:24.
We love God because of
everything He has done for us. From the over-flow of our love for Him, we should
love our fellow man. The Bible says that without love we are nothing 1 John
3:13-21, 1 Corinthians 13:1-7.
Wisdom: If
you pray for more patience (long-suffering), don’t be surprised if God teaches
you to be patient by difficulties in your life Hebrews 12:11. You will never
wake up one morning as a ‘saint’! But God will help you to grow into His image
by your daily circumstances.
Fact: When
we surrender to God, we let His will be done in our lives.
To become kind
or good is not a spiritual mystery, but a practical experience. You must choose
to help someone, for example to go shopping with an elderly person, or help them
in their garden. We can also choose to be kind in what we say to people. As we
do this, we can pray that God will change us to be more like
Him.
Think: What
areas of my life show the least fruit? How can I change?
More
Info: Mark 4:20, John
15:1-16, Romans 6:22, 7:4, Ephesians 5:9, Philippians 1:11, Colossians 1:10,
James 3:17.
Question
and answer: “How is this
fruit manifested in my life?”
As we surrender to God and
continually receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit, the fruit of the Spirit
should become a reality in our lives. This is not theory, but a daily experience
in our every day lives. All the fruit is manifested through love, as *fruit is a
singular word, and not the plural, which would be fruits.
Galatians
5:22-23 ‘The *fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control’
We
are commanded by God to bear fruit within our lives Matthew 3:8. People will
know us by our fruits - which are a changed character and lifestyle Matthew
7:16. As we surrender every area to the Holy Spirit, then our old negative ways
will die (1 Corinthians 15:31). As the old ways die, we will produce new fruit;
the fruit of the Spirit John 12:24.
We love God because of
everything He has done for us. From the over-flow of our love for Him, we should
love our fellow man. The Bible says that without love we are nothing 1 John
3:13-21, 1 Corinthians 13:1-7.
Wisdom: If
you pray for more patience (long-suffering), don’t be surprised if God teaches
you to be patient by difficulties in your life Hebrews 12:11. You will never
wake up one morning as a ‘saint’! But God will help you to grow into His image
by your daily circumstances.
Fact: When
we surrender to God, we let His will be done in our lives.
To become kind
or good is not a spiritual mystery, but a practical experience. You must choose
to help someone, for example to go shopping with an elderly person, or help them
in their garden. We can also choose to be kind in what we say to people. As we
do this, we can pray that God will change us to be more like
Him.
Think: What
areas of my life show the least fruit? How can I change?
More
Info: Mark 4:20, John
15:1-16, Romans 6:22, 7:4, Ephesians 5:9, Philippians 1:11, Colossians 1:10,
James 3:17.
36. The GRACES of the HOLY SPIRIT
Question
and answer: “Are these gifts
from the Holy Spirit as well?”
We can do nothing of eternal
value without God, and any talents or gifts that we have come from Him in the
first place, Deuteronomy 1:18, Jeremiah 1:5, Acts 17:28, Romans
15:10.
These natural gifts are God-given and they can be used to a
greater effect within the Kingdom of God as the Holy Spirit leads or out of love
for people. E.g. I don’t need to hear the Holy Spirit tell me to help my brother
or a stranger out when I can see that he is in need and I have the means to help
him, Matthew 7:12, 25:14-30, 1 John 3:16-17, James 1:22.
To help someone
out should be a natural response to share the love of Christ.
Romans
12:6-8,13 ‘Having gifts differing according to the grace given to us, let us use
them…(gift of) ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches in
teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who
leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Distributing to
the needs of the saints; given to hospitality’. 1 Corinthians 12: 28 ‘God has
appointed these in the church…helps, administrations, varieties of
tongues’.
Wisdom: It is sin to know what to do, and not
to do it James 4:17.
We should use our gifts and talents for the glory of
God. Some people are gifted at making money. They have been given this gift so
they can give large amounts of money to God’s Kingdom. Others are talented with
music/singing and can help in worship, or can help others to learn how to play
an instrument. Others are gifted in administration, writing letters, filing
accounts, handling money etc. Some people are gifted mechanically or are very
practical in problem solving. Other people ooze with love and have the ability
to look after elderly people, disabled children etc. Some people can teach,
others are good encouragers and some are given to hospitality. The list is
endless 1 Corinthians 12:14-27.
Fact: Do
you want to live as a Christian who waits for heaven, or as a disciple who lives
for God’s will, and enters heaven with “Well done my good and faithful servant”?
A disciple also collects a crown and rewards, 2 Timothy 1:9, 4:8, Matthew
10:37-42, 25:23, Luke 19:12-27, Revelation 3:11.
Think: Am I using my God given talents/gifts
to glorify Him?
More Info: Exodus 28:3, 31:6, 35:26,31-34,
36:5-7, Deut 28:2-8,11,12, 1 Chronicles 28:19, Nehemiah Ch 3, 4:6, 6:15,16,
Proverbs 11:18, 25:21,22, Haggai 1:14, Matthew 6:19-21, Luke 6:38, 16:10, Romans
15:15, 1 Corinthians 9:16-18, 10:31, 15;10, 2 Cor. 9:8, Col. 3:23,24, 1 Thess.
2:11, 3:12, 5:14, 1 Tim. 3:2-3, 1 Pet. 4:9, 5:4, Rev. 22:10.
Question
and answer: “Are these gifts
from the Holy Spirit as well?”
We can do nothing of eternal
value without God, and any talents or gifts that we have come from Him in the
first place, Deuteronomy 1:18, Jeremiah 1:5, Acts 17:28, Romans
15:10.
These natural gifts are God-given and they can be used to a
greater effect within the Kingdom of God as the Holy Spirit leads or out of love
for people. E.g. I don’t need to hear the Holy Spirit tell me to help my brother
or a stranger out when I can see that he is in need and I have the means to help
him, Matthew 7:12, 25:14-30, 1 John 3:16-17, James 1:22.
To help someone
out should be a natural response to share the love of Christ.
Romans
12:6-8,13 ‘Having gifts differing according to the grace given to us, let us use
them…(gift of) ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches in
teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who
leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Distributing to
the needs of the saints; given to hospitality’. 1 Corinthians 12: 28 ‘God has
appointed these in the church…helps, administrations, varieties of
tongues’.
Wisdom: It is sin to know what to do, and not
to do it James 4:17.
We should use our gifts and talents for the glory of
God. Some people are gifted at making money. They have been given this gift so
they can give large amounts of money to God’s Kingdom. Others are talented with
music/singing and can help in worship, or can help others to learn how to play
an instrument. Others are gifted in administration, writing letters, filing
accounts, handling money etc. Some people are gifted mechanically or are very
practical in problem solving. Other people ooze with love and have the ability
to look after elderly people, disabled children etc. Some people can teach,
others are good encouragers and some are given to hospitality. The list is
endless 1 Corinthians 12:14-27.
Fact: Do
you want to live as a Christian who waits for heaven, or as a disciple who lives
for God’s will, and enters heaven with “Well done my good and faithful servant”?
A disciple also collects a crown and rewards, 2 Timothy 1:9, 4:8, Matthew
10:37-42, 25:23, Luke 19:12-27, Revelation 3:11.
Think: Am I using my God given talents/gifts
to glorify Him?
More Info: Exodus 28:3, 31:6, 35:26,31-34,
36:5-7, Deut 28:2-8,11,12, 1 Chronicles 28:19, Nehemiah Ch 3, 4:6, 6:15,16,
Proverbs 11:18, 25:21,22, Haggai 1:14, Matthew 6:19-21, Luke 6:38, 16:10, Romans
15:15, 1 Corinthians 9:16-18, 10:31, 15;10, 2 Cor. 9:8, Col. 3:23,24, 1 Thess.
2:11, 3:12, 5:14, 1 Tim. 3:2-3, 1 Pet. 4:9, 5:4, Rev. 22:10.
39. Knowing GOD as FATHER
Question
and answer: “I never knew my
dad. Mum said he was a drunkard, so how can I relate to God as a Father?”
Knowing God as Father can be
a difficult concept to understand, especially if your father was never there, or
was a very bad example. Most people would naturally assume a heavenly Father to
be similar to that of an earthly father, but that is not the case; even if our
parents were good, they never come up to God’s standard. Do you dream of the
perfect father? The Bible tells us that God is perfect!
Fact: God loves us for who we are, and not
for what we can do for Him.
Romans 8:15 ‘For you did not receive the
spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom
we cry out “Abba Father”’
Fact: In
the Hebrew and Aramaic languages ‘Abba’ means father.
God is love. He is
especially interested in the orphans, the fatherless and the widows. God wants
to take care of them, just like He wants to take care of all mankind. God is no
respecter of persons. Big or small, rich or poor, God loves them all 1 John 4:8,
Psalm 68:5-6, 27:10, Romans 2:11.
Think: Do
I need to forgive my earthly parents or guardians for not being good role
models? Bearing in mind that they probably tried their best.
Do you
believe that God loves you unconditionally? God’s love is free and has no
conditions. Even if you make loads of mistakes, He is bubbling over in love for
you. You cannot understand this unless the Spirit of God shows you that you are
not in His bad books, or in trouble. You are His beloved. Whether you stand or
fall, He loves you as a perfect father would.
Jesus said “I will never
leave nor forsake you” and ‘He has not left us comfortless’, as the Holy Spirit
would be our Comforter Matthew 28:20, Hebrews 13:5-7, John
14:1-21.
Wisdom: As God’s love is free and
unconditional we should receive it and be tender hearted towards all. As we
allow God’s love to fill our hearts, then we can show His love to the people of
this world.
More Info: Deuteronomy 32:9-12, Psalm 91:4,
144:2, Matthew 6:9-13, 7:11, Mark 10:13-16, 14:6, Luke 15:11-32, John 1:12, 2
Corinthians 6:18, Galatians 4:6,7.
Question
and answer: “I never knew my
dad. Mum said he was a drunkard, so how can I relate to God as a Father?”
Knowing God as Father can be
a difficult concept to understand, especially if your father was never there, or
was a very bad example. Most people would naturally assume a heavenly Father to
be similar to that of an earthly father, but that is not the case; even if our
parents were good, they never come up to God’s standard. Do you dream of the
perfect father? The Bible tells us that God is perfect!
Fact: God loves us for who we are, and not
for what we can do for Him.
Romans 8:15 ‘For you did not receive the
spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom
we cry out “Abba Father”’
Fact: In
the Hebrew and Aramaic languages ‘Abba’ means father.
God is love. He is
especially interested in the orphans, the fatherless and the widows. God wants
to take care of them, just like He wants to take care of all mankind. God is no
respecter of persons. Big or small, rich or poor, God loves them all 1 John 4:8,
Psalm 68:5-6, 27:10, Romans 2:11.
Think: Do
I need to forgive my earthly parents or guardians for not being good role
models? Bearing in mind that they probably tried their best.
Do you
believe that God loves you unconditionally? God’s love is free and has no
conditions. Even if you make loads of mistakes, He is bubbling over in love for
you. You cannot understand this unless the Spirit of God shows you that you are
not in His bad books, or in trouble. You are His beloved. Whether you stand or
fall, He loves you as a perfect father would.
Jesus said “I will never
leave nor forsake you” and ‘He has not left us comfortless’, as the Holy Spirit
would be our Comforter Matthew 28:20, Hebrews 13:5-7, John
14:1-21.
Wisdom: As God’s love is free and
unconditional we should receive it and be tender hearted towards all. As we
allow God’s love to fill our hearts, then we can show His love to the people of
this world.
More Info: Deuteronomy 32:9-12, Psalm 91:4,
144:2, Matthew 6:9-13, 7:11, Mark 10:13-16, 14:6, Luke 15:11-32, John 1:12, 2
Corinthians 6:18, Galatians 4:6,7.
42. LOVE is a REALITY
Question and answer: “What exactly is love? Is it a ‘loose’ word?”
The word love has been completely confused in Western culture. Some say they love their football team, others love a TV series, and some people say they love someone, but treat them with contempt! Love can be a strong positive emotion, or a term of endearment, but it is more than that! Love can be manifested as a decision or action. Christians demonstrate their love in practical ways 1 John 3:17-18. Jesus is the perfect example of love. He loved the unlovable. He touched the lepers and many other outcasts of society.
The world is confused about love. This is what the Bible says it is.
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a ‘Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up. Does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, and thinks no evil. Does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails…’
Fact: There are four Greek words for love. All of them have different meanings that give greater expression and depth to their significance.
Question and answer: “What exactly is love? Is it a ‘loose’ word?”
The word love has been completely confused in Western culture. Some say they love their football team, others love a TV series, and some people say they love someone, but treat them with contempt! Love can be a strong positive emotion, or a term of endearment, but it is more than that! Love can be manifested as a decision or action. Christians demonstrate their love in practical ways 1 John 3:17-18. Jesus is the perfect example of love. He loved the unlovable. He touched the lepers and many other outcasts of society.
The world is confused about love. This is what the Bible says it is.
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a ‘Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up. Does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, and thinks no evil. Does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails…’
Fact: There are four Greek words for love. All of them have different meanings that give greater expression and depth to their significance.
43. HUMILITY and MEEKNESS
Question and answer: “Isn’t humility and meekness a sign of weakness?”
No not at all! To be humble and meek are Godly traits. Moses was a very powerful leader, yet the Bible speaks of his humility and meekness. Exodus 3:11, 4:10-17 and Numbers 12:3. Jesus was God’s Son yet He came as a servant to serve mankind, Matthew 12:18-21, John 13:3-17.
1 Peter 5:5 ‘…be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble’
God uses humble people. When we are humble, we give glory to God for all the things He does through us. We must choose to be humble as we walk in the fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:22-23. Jesus was meek, He was of a gentle and long suffering disposition, yet He had great authority and power.
Matthew 18:4 ‘Whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven’
Nobody likes a proud and boastful person, so try not to be one. If you are humble and meek, you will not need to tell people about it! People will honour you as God uses you. Did you hear about the Christian who kept saying how humble he was!
Wisdom: You cannot lead unless you have first learnt to follow.
Jesus was humble and meek, yet He stood out amongst the crowd as someone who had God’s seal of approval on Him. He spoke and moved with authority, yet willingly gave His life for mankind and was led as a lamb to the slaughter. Matthew 7:29, Mark 1:22,27, Isaiah 53:7, John 19:9-12.
If God is with you, you will never need to promote yourself into a position of authority, and you should not try to push others down to promote yourself. ‘For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends’ 2 Corinthians 10:18.
Fact: God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble James 4:6.
Think: Will I humble myself and let God promote me? Do I try to promote myself? ‘Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God and He will lift you up' James 4:10.
More Info: Genesis 41:15-41, 52, Deuteronomy 8:2, 2 Samuel 16:5-12, 2 Kings 22:19,20, Isaiah 57:15, Zephaniah 2:3, Matthew 23:12, Luke 8:14, Philippians 2:8, Colossians 3:12.
Question and answer: “Isn’t humility and meekness a sign of weakness?”
No not at all! To be humble and meek are Godly traits. Moses was a very powerful leader, yet the Bible speaks of his humility and meekness. Exodus 3:11, 4:10-17 and Numbers 12:3. Jesus was God’s Son yet He came as a servant to serve mankind, Matthew 12:18-21, John 13:3-17.
1 Peter 5:5 ‘…be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble’
God uses humble people. When we are humble, we give glory to God for all the things He does through us. We must choose to be humble as we walk in the fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:22-23. Jesus was meek, He was of a gentle and long suffering disposition, yet He had great authority and power.
Matthew 18:4 ‘Whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven’
Nobody likes a proud and boastful person, so try not to be one. If you are humble and meek, you will not need to tell people about it! People will honour you as God uses you. Did you hear about the Christian who kept saying how humble he was!
Wisdom: You cannot lead unless you have first learnt to follow.
Jesus was humble and meek, yet He stood out amongst the crowd as someone who had God’s seal of approval on Him. He spoke and moved with authority, yet willingly gave His life for mankind and was led as a lamb to the slaughter. Matthew 7:29, Mark 1:22,27, Isaiah 53:7, John 19:9-12.
If God is with you, you will never need to promote yourself into a position of authority, and you should not try to push others down to promote yourself. ‘For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends’ 2 Corinthians 10:18.
Fact: God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble James 4:6.
Think: Will I humble myself and let God promote me? Do I try to promote myself? ‘Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God and He will lift you up' James 4:10.
More Info: Genesis 41:15-41, 52, Deuteronomy 8:2, 2 Samuel 16:5-12, 2 Kings 22:19,20, Isaiah 57:15, Zephaniah 2:3, Matthew 23:12, Luke 8:14, Philippians 2:8, Colossians 3:12.
44. A GOOD PLAN for your LIFE
Question and answer: “I want to make the best of my life, how can I achieve this?”
To lead a fulfilled, fruitful and successful life in the eyes of God, you will have to follow and obey this Scripture ‘love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength’. We have to be obedient to the Holy Spirit who will lead and guide us into all truth.
2 Corinthians 5:15 ‘Jesus died for all, that those who live, should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again’
Wisdom: To be surrendered to the Holy Spirit means to be under His control. You have given ‘your’ will to Him and now you delight to do His will. ‘You were bought at a price’ Exodus 21:1-6, Psalm 40:6-8, 1 Corinthians 6:20, 7:23. As we read the Bible we need to obey the principles and apply them to our life James 1:22. We can learn from those who have gone before us.
We should be seeking God from day to day, trying to get to know Him and His ways. God should not be a stranger to us. We are told to ‘seek first God’ and ‘delight our self in Him’ Matthew 6:33, Psalm 16:11, Psalm 37:4-5, 23, 63:3. Live each day as if it is your last, or if Jesus were to come tomorrow... He might! Matthew 24:27-51, 25:1-13, Revelation 19:11-16.
Fact: We were made to have fellowship with God. We should live for the King and His cause Mark 16:15-18, John 4:34. Every one you meet today is on heaven’s most wanted list! John 3:16, Romans 15:4, 2 Peter 3:9.
“A life without a cause not worth dying for is not worth living for” Martin Luther King. Die spiritually to ‘self’, then you can really live.
Complete surrender to God’s call is costly. Sometimes you will have to make hard and painful decisions to obey God. Jesus understands, because He had to choose to die in our place. It was very hard, yet He steadfastly set His face towards Jerusalem to fulfil His destiny Matthew 16:21, Matthew 20:18, 23:37, Luke 9:51. But the rewards and benefits in this life and the next will be glorious. Matthew 10:19, 38-39, 19:27-30, Luke 14:25-35, John 3:30.
Think: Am I prepared to be sold out for Christ Jesus. Do I want His best?
More Info: Isaiah Ch 53, 58:14, Mark 8:34,35, 12:30-33, Luke 2:49, John 5:17,12:24,25, 1 Corinthians 15:51, Galatians 2:20, Philippians 3:7,8, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:9-17.
45. The COST of DISCIPLESHIP
Question
and answer: “Will following
Jesus Christ be easy and what does it involve?”
To
follow in the footsteps of Jesus will be difficult - there will be trials and
discouragements. BUT the rewards are out of this world! Jesus has all authority,
after all, He conquered sin, death and the devil, and He gives us abundant help
in time of need. He is the head of the body, and He will come back for us, the
spotless and powerful bride of Christ! Colossians 1:18, Ephesians 5:27,
Revelation 21:2, 9.
Luke 9:23 ‘If anyone
desires to come after Me, (Jesus) let him deny himself, and take up his cross
daily and follow Me’
After a diamond is brought from the ground, it
has to be washed, cut and polished. It has to be changed so the light will
reflect the beauty of the stone. After it has been worked on, it becomes much
more valuable than before. We also are a bit rough round the sides! We were
dirty but the blood of Jesus has made us clean, John 17:17, 1 Timothy 4:5,
Hebrews 10:22, Revelation 1:5. The Lord may call us into a very hard situation
to pray and be faithful. It is during these times that we are washed, cut and
polished to be more like Christ.
Wisdom: God
is the Master Potter and we are His clay. Allow Him to mould you daily into His
image Jeremiah 18:1-6, 29:11-13.
A disciple should be led by
the Holy Spirit. Obey God’s Word and the Holy Spirit will lead you into His plan
for you. Regularly pray, read your Bible and fellowship with other believers.
Mature believers will help you learn more about following Jesus. A disciple is
not someone who can pass a theological test on paper, but a person who obeys the
leading of the Holy Spirit. Their prayer is, “Here I am Lord, use me!” Isaiah
6:8.
Fact: You can
go as deep and as far with God as you choose to.
Enoch walked with God,
Genesis 5:24. Moses was desperate to see God’s glory, Exodus 33:18. Peter’s
shadow healed the sick! Acts 5:15. God worked unusual miracles by the hand of
Paul, Acts 19:11. There is always more to learn about the ways of God. Nobody
has arrived or got all the answers.
Think: Will
you pay the price to become a real disciple of Jesus?
More
Info: Psalm 119:67,68,
Lamentations 3:33, Matthew 5:13-16, Luke 9:23-26, 16:10, Romans 5:3-5, 2
Corinthians 1:8,9, Hebrews 2:4,12:11, James 1:2-4, Revelation 3:19-20.
46. Find YOUR CALLING
Question
and answer: “How do I know
what God wants me to do with my life?”
Seek God and ask Him to reveal His
will to you. You can do this practically by reading and meditating in God's
Word, in prayer and by listening to His ‘still small voice’. As you obey God
today, you can be sure that He will reveal His will for you
tomorrow.
Proverbs 3:5,6 ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and
lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He
shall direct your paths’
If you want to lead a fulfilling life, then
live for God’s plan for you. You only have one life… so don’t learn the hard way
that a sinful life will inevitably be an empty life. God has an individual
calling for you; so don’t follow your friends into their job or position.
Wisdom: Follow
the peace of God Col. 3:15. ‘Let the peace of God rule in your hearts’
If you have a job and feel at
peace there don’t run away, even if things are hard. Maybe God is teaching you
something through that learning curve. If you are thinking about taking a
course, which other mature Christians have said would be good for you and you
feel at peace, then step out in faith, believing that God is leading you. If you
make a major decision and feel deeply disturbed inside, maybe you should talk it
over with God and others. God may be warning you before you make a big mistake.
Always remember ‘we are led by the Spirit of God, not our feelings!’ Learn the
difference between the Spirit’s leading and your
feelings.
Fact: God does have a great and exciting
plan for your life.
Some people are called into the ministry (to work for
God full time) say as an evangelist, pastor or missionary. Most Christians have
a ‘normal’ job, but can also be the evangelist or missionary within their work
place. Every day ask the Holy Spirit to give you opportunities to share your
faith and to help you lead a lifestyle that will glorify
Jesus.
Think: Do I
want to follow God whole-heartedly and to live for Him? Will I live for His will
alone?
More Info: 1 Chronicles 16:11, 2 Chronicles
16:9, Ezra 7:10, Nehemiah 4:6-9, Psalm 32:8, 34:10, 37:3-5, 46:10, 123:2,
Proverbs 5:21, 6:22-23, 8:17,16:9,31, 28:5, Matthew 6:33, 7:7,8, John 10:27,
16:13, 1 Corinthians 10:31, 2 Tim. 3;16,17, Heb.11:6, 1 Pet. 5:6.
47. JUDGING others
Question and answer: “Should I be judging my brother?”
This subject can be very confusing, and misunderstandings can arise unless we read all the scriptures within their context. We can judge people, but we are also warned not to judge! Most people judge negatively and this is sin. It is best to make sure that your own life is right with God before you go and point out a brother’s mistake, because your brother may tell you many of your own faults! Always tell the truth in love, because you want them to grow into a deeper relationship with God, Mat. 5:23-24, 6:14, Eph. 4:15.
Matthew 7:1-5 “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgement you use it will be measured back to you...consider the plank in your own eye! Or how can you say to your brother, ‘let me remove the speck out of your eye’; and look a plank is in your own eye? Hypocrite first remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye”
To judge someone biblically is to talk with a brother lovingly one on one (and not telling others!) (Titus 3:2, James 4:11) regarding their fault, hopefully leading to their restoration. It is best that either a leader (Galatians 6:1) or a close friend (Proverbs 27:17, James 5:16) tells a brother about his fault. If the brother has committed sin against you or vice versa then you have to speak to him on your own, Matthew 5:23-24, 18:15-22, Luke 17:3-4.
Wisdom: If you are not right with God or a fellow brother, then judge no one. There is a big difference between the gift of discernment and suspicion.
There are three types of judging and correction: John 7:24.
1. To restore the offender so that they can repent, change and be restored, because you want the best for them, 2 Corinthians 2:1-11, Galatians 6:1-5.
2. To protect the body of Christ from false teachers. Matthew 7:15-23, Acts 21:29-31, 10-22. (1 Timothy 1:19-20, 2 Timothy 2:17-18), 2 Peter 2:1-3.
3. To correct those who set a bad example and could shake a young believer’s faith, (Acts 23:3), 1 Corinthians 5, 8:7-13, 10:23-32, James 4:1-4.
Fact: Most people judge with a wrong heart and motives, Romans 2:1-5.
Think: Do you do to others, as you would have them to do to you?
More Info: Matthew 3:8-10, 19:13-15, Luke 12:54-59, Romans 16:17, 1 Corinthians 4:4-5, 6:1-10, 14:29, 2 Corinthians 13:1-2, Galatians 6:7-8, Ephesians 5:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:14, 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 1 Timothy 5:19-20, 2 Timothy 2:14-19,23, 3:1-9, Titus 3:9-11, 1 Peter 4:8, Revelation chapters 2 and 3.
48. Who should I MARRY?
Question and answer: “How do I know who I should marry?”
Well no one can tell you that but God. He will show you when it is His time, and whom you should marry. God’s timing may not be our timing, never go rushing into a commitment with a relationship. At the heart of marriage is companionship and intimacy, which both husband and wife must promote. Do not mistake lust for love.
Genesis 2:18 ‘God said, "It is not good that man should be alone."'
Wisdom: Spend some quality time seeking the Lord and talking with godly leaders before you make any decision – they could save you a lifetime of misery; and help you find God’s choice.
Remember these three principles...
1. Be obedient to God and choose a believer.
2. Trust God to lead you to the right person.
3. Look out for good and godly characteristics.
2 Corinthians 6:14 ‘Do not be yoked together with unbelievers, for what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?’
A husband and wife team should complement each other. Do you have similar interests when it comes to spiritual matters? Do you pray and read the Bible together? Do you have common interests and values? Can you work and relax together? Do you help meet each other's emotional needs? Can you work problems through together? When you fight: can you sort it out, forgive and move on? Do you agree on the foundational doctrines?
Do either of you have unresolved relationships in your past? Have you talked about each area of your future life? Do you want children? What are your callings? If one of you wants to be a missionary and the other does not, then you are not compatible. Will there be cultural differences? Western and Eastern culture are very different, with different responsibilities.
Characteristics to look for in a future husband / wife
1. Are they devoted to Christ? Are they right with God and do they walk close with Him? 2 Corinthians 5:15. Will they draw you nearer to or away from the Lord’s will for your life? Isaiah 5:20, 2 Corinthians 13:5. Do you want to spend the rest of your life with someone who may one day hate your love for God? 2 Corinthians 6:14.
2. Look for the correct priorities. Do they want to fulfil the plan that God has for you both, or are they committed to money, position in society and pleasure? Will they put their work life before you and maybe one day the kids? Proverbs 23:4, Matthew 6:33.
3. Do they walk in the love of God? We all have our bad days – but do they treat you with respect? Can you see the peace of God flowing from them? 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a. Are they vindictive towards other people – one day they may be that way towards you, Proverbs 27:5-6. Do they totally lose their temper? Ephesians 4:26-27. Do you feel safe with him / her? Proverbs warns us not to get involved with someone who is constantly irritable and contentious Proverbs 21:9, 19. Do they moan all of the time? Do you see the fruit of the Spirit in them now? Galatians 5:22-23.
4. Are they an honest person? Can you trust him / her? Are they a person of their word? Imagine spending the rest of your life with someone whom you cannot trust; they promise – but rarely fulfil. They lie to get out of difficult situations Numbers 30:2, Psalm 15:1-4b and Proverbs 24:1. Do you think you would be happy with that person?
5. Are they responsible? Do you want to spend your life working hard, when your husband / wife is a selfish, lazy person who ignores their responsibilities? Proverbs 14:23, Proverbs 21:25, Proverbs 22:13, Proverbs 26:13 and 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15.
6. Do they exercise self control? Luke 9:23. Does he or she binge drink? Ephesians 5:18. Are they addicted to drugs, alcohol, sex, work etc? If they have not valued sexual purity before marriage – will they remain pure throughout the whole marriage – even during the long difficult times? Proverbs 5:15-20 and 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
7. What is their attitude towards money? Will they waste the grocery money on expensive brand name shoes, because they are an impulsive shopper? Luke 9:23. Could they send you spiralling into debt by buying a big car or expensive dress without consulting you? Do they gamble? Will they bring a big debt into the marriage? Proverbs 22:7 and Luke 14:28-30. Do they tithe and give offerings to God? Could they put their ‘wants’ above your future families needs? 1 Timothy 5:8.
8. Are they committed to fellowship in church? Are they humble and willing to serve others? 1 Peter 5:5-6. You really don’t want to find out that they are a backslider after six months of marriage! Hebrews 10:25.
9. Do they honour their / your parents? We all know the joke about the mother-in-law; but the Scripture does promise that all will go well with us if we honour our parents Ephesians 6:2-3.
10. Do you love them for their inner beauty? Physical attraction is important, but age does catch up with us all! The Lord looks at the heart and we need wisdom to see past their outward appearance to the heart 1 Samuel 16:7, 1 Peter 3:2-4.
Proverbs 31:30 ‘Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.’
11. Has love blinded you? Sometimes everyone else can see that the person you are with is unsuitable – but our feelings can completely blind us! If your friends, family, pastor and church all tell you not to get married – you will need to consider their advice carefully! Seek God very urgently! Proverbs 11:14 and 20:18a.
On the other hand, many leaders told John Wesley not to marry a great Christian girl because it was not good for the Methodist movement. See Job 12:12, Job 32:9. He was so heart-broken that later he married without consulting anyone – unfortunately for him – he married a bad apple. People testified to seeing his wife pull him around by the hair!!
12. Beware of unrealistic expectations! The list above is good: but remember there is no perfect prince charming or princess out there! We are all real people, with real problems and faults. Are you ready to deal with their and your problems? Proverbs 19:11, John 12:24, Romans 12:9-12, Galatians 2:20, 2 Timothy 2:24-26.
Some think that marriage will solve all of their problems, whilst others marry for all the wrong reasons: such as being caught up in the excitement of a proposal, fear of being left on the shelf, an excuse to escape a bad family atmosphere or to give up work forever under the pretence of starting a family. Others look to marriage as a way to step up the social, economical or political ladder, or for the security in knowing of a future inheritance.
Remember it is better to be single and lonely, than to be married, wishing you were single! One woman who married poorly said, "I never really knew what it was to be alone, until I got married."
Fact: Christian marriage is a lifetime commitment through all of life’s ups and downs.
Do you understand what the responsibilities of a husband and wife are? Study 1 Corinthians 7:1-11, Ephesians 5:22-33, 1 Peter 3:1-7, Proverbs chapter 31.
If you take care of the things that are dear to God, then He will take care of the things that are dear to you Matthew 6:33, Psalm 37:4, 23, 145:19. Being single is an important time to prepare you for marriage. It can also be a time to experience a closer relationship with Him. Sometimes people do not marry for a variety of reasons and there is nothing wrong in remaining single. God’s will be done.
Think: What do you expect to get from marriage and what are you prepared to give? Are you ready for a lifetime commitment?
More Info: Genesis 2:18-25, Ruth, Ecclesiastes 9:9, Song of Songs, Matthew 12:25, Galatians 5:15, Ephesians 6:4, 1 Timothy 3:4. Malachi 2:13-16.
49. All about DIVORCE
Question and answer: “Divorce is everywhere, but what does the Bible say about it?” The Bible says that God hates divorce.
Jesus said that divorce is permitted if a spouse has been sexually immoral. Matthew 19:3-12, Mark 10:1-12. Divorce is messy and painful - everybody loses, especially the children.
Malachi 2:16 ‘For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce, for it covers one’s garments with violence…’
Divorce is ‘normal’ in some societies, but it should not be normal for Christians. Most of us will know people who have gone through a divorce and we know some of the pain and anguish they have endured.
Wisdom: Never rush into marriage, pray long and hard and make sure that you are compatible, suitable and both spiritual. Do you have the same calling? The best way to protect yourself from experiencing a divorce in the future is to let God choose your future spouse.
Divorce can cause much pain, rejection, a feeling of betrayal, bitterness, anger, financial and emotional stress and a deep sense of grief. You need to forgive those who have hurt you and allow God to heal your broken heart. We need to love and to help those who have been through divorce, especially the children who often are caught in the middle of the parent’s tug-of-war. God can give you all the emotional support etc that you need.
Fact: It is better to work a problem through than to run from it. ‘With God all things are possible’ Matthew 19:26. Jesus can and does heal marriages. He also can heal the children who have been hurt by their parents’ divorce.
A lady who had been married for fifty years was asked the secret of her successful marriage. She replied, “I decided to make a mental note of his ten worst habits or annoyances, and then just ignore them one by one”. And what were those ten habits or annoyances?” asked the intrigued lady. “I’m not sure” replied the happily married lady “I stopped counting at nine”. You cannot change the person whom you marry, but you can love and accept them Ephesians 4:32, 5:21-33, 1 Peter 4:8, Ecclesiastes 7:22-23.
Think: When I step into marriage will it be ‘Till death do us part?’
More Info: Genesis 2:18, 24, Deuteronomy 22:19, Malachi 2:13-16, Matthew (5:23-24, 18:15-17), 19:3-12, Romans 7:1-3, 12:17-19, 1 Corinthians 7:10-16, 1 Peter 3:7.
50. Be BALANCED in KNOWLEDGE and UNDERSTANDING
Question and answer: “How can I lead a life of balance in regards to Bible knowledge?
We should not build our faith or Biblical knowledge on one truth only to neglect other truths, which are equally important. You can over-emphasise or give more prominence to some issues or doctrines, e.g. Israel, Calvinism, Revelations etc and under-emphasise on others.
Jesus should be our first love and our central theme. It is a good idea to read the Bible through every year, as you may forget other truths. Ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten you. The Holy Spirit will only bring to remembrance that which you have read! Isaiah 28:9-10, Hosea 4:6, 6:3, 1 Corinthians 3:2, Hebrews 5:12, 6:1-2.
John 7:16 Jesus said “My doctrine is not Mine but He who sent Me”
John 14:26 “The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to remembrance all things that I said to you”
You cannot build a doctrine on certain selective Scriptures, Romans 15:4, 16:17. You have to take all of them and apply them within their context. You cannot twist or manipulate Scripture to make them fit a doctrine, Matthew 26:23-29, John 5:39. Any half-truth cannot make the whole truth. Beware of half-truths as you may get the wrong half! We can have understanding in some areas but not in others, Isa. 28:9-10, Acts 4:13, 18:24-28, 19:1-11.
Wisdom: We need to get as close to God as possible. Are you a part of the 120, the 70, the 12 or the three disciples? Matthew 17:1, or we can be close to Jesus' heart, John 21:20. The closer we get to Jesus, who is the Truth, John 14:6, then the more balanced we will be in our teaching.
Fact: People can be controversial, often just to justify their imbalance.
We need to be careful from whom we get our teaching - they may be in error, Luke 6:39-40. We should judge all things with Scripture, Acts 17:10-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
Teachers need to be godly and not self-promoting, 2 Corinthians 10:18. Teachers should proclaim and teach ‘the whole council of God’, Acts 20:18-28. We should not focus on our differences in doctrine (but we should expose heresy), but on what we have in common; don’t major on the minors,1 Timothy 1:3-4, Titus 3:9, Hebrews 13:9. Edify one another, Hebrews 12:14.
Think: Am I too focused on one doctrine, or do I desire to know the whole truth? Psalm 111:2.
More Info: Matthew 15:15, Luke 24:27, John 7:14-18, Acts 2:42, 1 Corinthians 13:12, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Ephesians 4:11-16, 1 Timothy 6:3-4, 2 Timothy 2:15, 3:10,16, Titus
51. DOCTRINE and HERESY
Question and answer: “How do I know if something is heresy?”
If a person or an organisation teaches contrary to the doctrines as found in the Bible, then this is heresy and false teaching! These teachers may be ignorant of biblical truths, Acts 8:8-24, 18:24-26. Some deliberately distort, Galatians 1:6-7, 3:1, 2 Peter 3:16-17, take away, or add to biblical truth, Deuteronomy 4:2, Galatians 1:8-9, Revelation 22:18-19. These teachers appeal for financial gain, (2 Corinthians 12:17-18), 1 Timothy 6:3-10, Jude 11. Some are under demonic influences and seek its desires, 1 Timothy 4:1, James 3:14-15, Jude 16-19.
1 John 2:22 ‘Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son’
2 Peter 2:1 ‘…there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction’
The Bible is the inspired Word of God. It is totally trustworthy and is our supreme authority in all matters of faith, conduct and doctrine, Romans 15:4, 2 Timothy 3:15-17, Hebrews 4:12, 2 Peter 1:19-21. ‘Test all things…’ 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
There are many cults in the world. They often call themselves ‘Christian’ to be accepted by society.
A ‘Christian’ cult is a group of people who have changed very important biblical doctrines and who deny such truths as: the Trinity, the deity of the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ. They often preach salvation by works, instead of by God’s grace, Romans 5:15-19, Galatians 5:4-10, Ephesians 2:8-9. Some say that the grace of God gives you liberty to sin, Jude 4. Some have 'new holy books or gospels' Deuteronomy 4:2, Galatians 1:8-9, Revelation 22:18-19. All cults teach much error that is contrary to biblical truth.
Wisdom: Believers should have a good working knowledge of the Bible, Acts 17:11, 2 Timothy 3:14-16. If something is taught as ‘truth’ then it must line up with what Scripture says, Acts 17:2, 18:28. God does not speak or reveal anything that is contrary to His word, 1 Corinthians 15:2-4. Fellow believers who teach truth are known ‘by their fruits’ Matthew 7:15-23.
Some of the major cults are the Jehovah’s Witnesses, the Mormons, Christian Science and the Christadelphians.
We are called to love and witness to all people, including members of the cults and other religions. Don’t argue with them; politely ask them to give you their testimony. They won’t have one because the cults have never met the living God. Speak in love and sow doubt into their mind.
Never accept their accursed pamphlets, their society’s ‘bible’ (with its false translations) or any other so-called ‘divine or holy books’.
Evangelical Christians are united by their belief in the central teachings of the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, and Ephesians 4:4-6. We should all believe the entire Bible and try to understand the whole counsel of God by revelation of the Holy Spirit, who came to guide us into all truth, John 16:13.
Fact: Man is universally sinful; He is guilty of sin and subject to God’s wrath and condemnation, Romans 3:19, 6:23. Jesus the incarnate Son of God gave His life as a substitute for sinful man, John 3:16, 1 Timothy 2:5-6. Jesus can redeem anyone from the power of sin and its consequences. Man can be justified solely by the grace of God, through repentance and faith in Christ’s death and resurrection from the dead, Romans 3:21-26, Ephesians 2:8-9.
Jesus is God: He received and accepted worship, Matthew 2:2, Luke 22:70-71, John 20:28. He forgave sins, Matthew 9:2. He existed from the beginning, Micah 5:2, John 1:1-2, 14. He is sinless, John 8:46, Hebrews 4:15. He is the Creator, John 1:3, 5:17-19, 7:28-29, 9:33-38, 10:30,33, 17:5,11, Col. 1:16. Jesus is One with the Father, John 17:21.
The Holy Spirit is God: A building cannot be grieved, as it has no feeling, but we can grieve the Holy Spirit, Ephesians 4:30, as He is a person, John 14:16, 16:8, 12-14, Romans 8:26. He has a will, Acts 16:6-7 and a mind, John 3:8, Romans 8:27. He is the Creator, Genesis 1:2 and Eternal, Hebrews 9:14. He is called God, 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, 2 Corinthians 3:17, Acts 5:3-4. He gives life, John 6:63. He convicts of sin, John 16:8. He intercedes for us, Romans 8:26-27.
The Trinity: “Let us make man in our image” Genesis 1:26. Jesus’ Baptism, the Father’s voice, the Spirit’s infilling Matthew 3:16-17. Baptise believers in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19. Unity of the Godhead, John 15:26. The Apostolic blessings, 2 Corinthians 13:14, Revelation 1:4-5.
Doctrine is very important and it must be kept pure, John 7:16-18, Acts 2:42, Ephesians 4:14, 1 Timothy 4:13-16. Everything must be judged by Scripture. The body of Christ needs to be protected from false teachers. Matthew 7:15-23, Acts 20:29-31, (1 Timothy 1:19-20, 2 Timothy 2:17-18), 2 Peter 2:1-3, 10-22. Excommunication from a church is always the final option, Hosea 9:15, Rev 1:20-2:1-5, and chapters 2 and 3. A little leaven will spread, Matthew 16:5-12, 18:15-17, 1 Corinthians 5:5-7.
Think: Do I know how to witness to cult members if the need arises?
More Info: Isaiah 48:16, Zechariah 2:9,11, Matthew 24:23-26, John 7:16-17, 15:26, Acts 2:42, Romans 16:17, 1 Timothy 4:1, 6:3-4, 2 Timothy 4:3-4, Titus 1:9-16, 2:1, Hebrews 3:7-11, 6:1-2, 2 Peter 2 (all), 3:1-3, 1 John 2:22-24, 4:6-8, 2 John 9-10.
Question and answer: “I want to make the best of my life, how can I achieve this?”
To lead a fulfilled, fruitful and successful life in the eyes of God, you will have to follow and obey this Scripture ‘love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength’. We have to be obedient to the Holy Spirit who will lead and guide us into all truth.
2 Corinthians 5:15 ‘Jesus died for all, that those who live, should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again’
Wisdom: To be surrendered to the Holy Spirit means to be under His control. You have given ‘your’ will to Him and now you delight to do His will. ‘You were bought at a price’ Exodus 21:1-6, Psalm 40:6-8, 1 Corinthians 6:20, 7:23. As we read the Bible we need to obey the principles and apply them to our life James 1:22. We can learn from those who have gone before us.
We should be seeking God from day to day, trying to get to know Him and His ways. God should not be a stranger to us. We are told to ‘seek first God’ and ‘delight our self in Him’ Matthew 6:33, Psalm 16:11, Psalm 37:4-5, 23, 63:3. Live each day as if it is your last, or if Jesus were to come tomorrow... He might! Matthew 24:27-51, 25:1-13, Revelation 19:11-16.
Fact: We were made to have fellowship with God. We should live for the King and His cause Mark 16:15-18, John 4:34. Every one you meet today is on heaven’s most wanted list! John 3:16, Romans 15:4, 2 Peter 3:9.
“A life without a cause not worth dying for is not worth living for” Martin Luther King. Die spiritually to ‘self’, then you can really live.
Complete surrender to God’s call is costly. Sometimes you will have to make hard and painful decisions to obey God. Jesus understands, because He had to choose to die in our place. It was very hard, yet He steadfastly set His face towards Jerusalem to fulfil His destiny Matthew 16:21, Matthew 20:18, 23:37, Luke 9:51. But the rewards and benefits in this life and the next will be glorious. Matthew 10:19, 38-39, 19:27-30, Luke 14:25-35, John 3:30.
Think: Am I prepared to be sold out for Christ Jesus. Do I want His best?
More Info: Isaiah Ch 53, 58:14, Mark 8:34,35, 12:30-33, Luke 2:49, John 5:17,12:24,25, 1 Corinthians 15:51, Galatians 2:20, Philippians 3:7,8, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:9-17.
45. The COST of DISCIPLESHIP
Question
and answer: “Will following
Jesus Christ be easy and what does it involve?”
To
follow in the footsteps of Jesus will be difficult - there will be trials and
discouragements. BUT the rewards are out of this world! Jesus has all authority,
after all, He conquered sin, death and the devil, and He gives us abundant help
in time of need. He is the head of the body, and He will come back for us, the
spotless and powerful bride of Christ! Colossians 1:18, Ephesians 5:27,
Revelation 21:2, 9.
Luke 9:23 ‘If anyone
desires to come after Me, (Jesus) let him deny himself, and take up his cross
daily and follow Me’
After a diamond is brought from the ground, it
has to be washed, cut and polished. It has to be changed so the light will
reflect the beauty of the stone. After it has been worked on, it becomes much
more valuable than before. We also are a bit rough round the sides! We were
dirty but the blood of Jesus has made us clean, John 17:17, 1 Timothy 4:5,
Hebrews 10:22, Revelation 1:5. The Lord may call us into a very hard situation
to pray and be faithful. It is during these times that we are washed, cut and
polished to be more like Christ.
Wisdom: God
is the Master Potter and we are His clay. Allow Him to mould you daily into His
image Jeremiah 18:1-6, 29:11-13.
A disciple should be led by
the Holy Spirit. Obey God’s Word and the Holy Spirit will lead you into His plan
for you. Regularly pray, read your Bible and fellowship with other believers.
Mature believers will help you learn more about following Jesus. A disciple is
not someone who can pass a theological test on paper, but a person who obeys the
leading of the Holy Spirit. Their prayer is, “Here I am Lord, use me!” Isaiah
6:8.
Fact: You can
go as deep and as far with God as you choose to.
Enoch walked with God,
Genesis 5:24. Moses was desperate to see God’s glory, Exodus 33:18. Peter’s
shadow healed the sick! Acts 5:15. God worked unusual miracles by the hand of
Paul, Acts 19:11. There is always more to learn about the ways of God. Nobody
has arrived or got all the answers.
Think: Will
you pay the price to become a real disciple of Jesus?
More
Info: Psalm 119:67,68,
Lamentations 3:33, Matthew 5:13-16, Luke 9:23-26, 16:10, Romans 5:3-5, 2
Corinthians 1:8,9, Hebrews 2:4,12:11, James 1:2-4, Revelation 3:19-20.
46. Find YOUR CALLING
Question
and answer: “How do I know
what God wants me to do with my life?”
Seek God and ask Him to reveal His
will to you. You can do this practically by reading and meditating in God's
Word, in prayer and by listening to His ‘still small voice’. As you obey God
today, you can be sure that He will reveal His will for you
tomorrow.
Proverbs 3:5,6 ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and
lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He
shall direct your paths’
If you want to lead a fulfilling life, then
live for God’s plan for you. You only have one life… so don’t learn the hard way
that a sinful life will inevitably be an empty life. God has an individual
calling for you; so don’t follow your friends into their job or position.
Wisdom: Follow
the peace of God Col. 3:15. ‘Let the peace of God rule in your hearts’
If you have a job and feel at
peace there don’t run away, even if things are hard. Maybe God is teaching you
something through that learning curve. If you are thinking about taking a
course, which other mature Christians have said would be good for you and you
feel at peace, then step out in faith, believing that God is leading you. If you
make a major decision and feel deeply disturbed inside, maybe you should talk it
over with God and others. God may be warning you before you make a big mistake.
Always remember ‘we are led by the Spirit of God, not our feelings!’ Learn the
difference between the Spirit’s leading and your
feelings.
Fact: God does have a great and exciting
plan for your life.
Some people are called into the ministry (to work for
God full time) say as an evangelist, pastor or missionary. Most Christians have
a ‘normal’ job, but can also be the evangelist or missionary within their work
place. Every day ask the Holy Spirit to give you opportunities to share your
faith and to help you lead a lifestyle that will glorify
Jesus.
Think: Do I
want to follow God whole-heartedly and to live for Him? Will I live for His will
alone?
More Info: 1 Chronicles 16:11, 2 Chronicles
16:9, Ezra 7:10, Nehemiah 4:6-9, Psalm 32:8, 34:10, 37:3-5, 46:10, 123:2,
Proverbs 5:21, 6:22-23, 8:17,16:9,31, 28:5, Matthew 6:33, 7:7,8, John 10:27,
16:13, 1 Corinthians 10:31, 2 Tim. 3;16,17, Heb.11:6, 1 Pet. 5:6.
47. JUDGING others
Question and answer: “Should I be judging my brother?”
This subject can be very confusing, and misunderstandings can arise unless we read all the scriptures within their context. We can judge people, but we are also warned not to judge! Most people judge negatively and this is sin. It is best to make sure that your own life is right with God before you go and point out a brother’s mistake, because your brother may tell you many of your own faults! Always tell the truth in love, because you want them to grow into a deeper relationship with God, Mat. 5:23-24, 6:14, Eph. 4:15.
Matthew 7:1-5 “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgement you use it will be measured back to you...consider the plank in your own eye! Or how can you say to your brother, ‘let me remove the speck out of your eye’; and look a plank is in your own eye? Hypocrite first remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye”
To judge someone biblically is to talk with a brother lovingly one on one (and not telling others!) (Titus 3:2, James 4:11) regarding their fault, hopefully leading to their restoration. It is best that either a leader (Galatians 6:1) or a close friend (Proverbs 27:17, James 5:16) tells a brother about his fault. If the brother has committed sin against you or vice versa then you have to speak to him on your own, Matthew 5:23-24, 18:15-22, Luke 17:3-4.
Wisdom: If you are not right with God or a fellow brother, then judge no one. There is a big difference between the gift of discernment and suspicion.
There are three types of judging and correction: John 7:24.
1. To restore the offender so that they can repent, change and be restored, because you want the best for them, 2 Corinthians 2:1-11, Galatians 6:1-5.
2. To protect the body of Christ from false teachers. Matthew 7:15-23, Acts 21:29-31, 10-22. (1 Timothy 1:19-20, 2 Timothy 2:17-18), 2 Peter 2:1-3.
3. To correct those who set a bad example and could shake a young believer’s faith, (Acts 23:3), 1 Corinthians 5, 8:7-13, 10:23-32, James 4:1-4.
Fact: Most people judge with a wrong heart and motives, Romans 2:1-5.
Think: Do you do to others, as you would have them to do to you?
More Info: Matthew 3:8-10, 19:13-15, Luke 12:54-59, Romans 16:17, 1 Corinthians 4:4-5, 6:1-10, 14:29, 2 Corinthians 13:1-2, Galatians 6:7-8, Ephesians 5:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:14, 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 1 Timothy 5:19-20, 2 Timothy 2:14-19,23, 3:1-9, Titus 3:9-11, 1 Peter 4:8, Revelation chapters 2 and 3.
48. Who should I MARRY?
Question and answer: “How do I know who I should marry?”
Well no one can tell you that but God. He will show you when it is His time, and whom you should marry. God’s timing may not be our timing, never go rushing into a commitment with a relationship. At the heart of marriage is companionship and intimacy, which both husband and wife must promote. Do not mistake lust for love.
Genesis 2:18 ‘God said, "It is not good that man should be alone."'
Wisdom: Spend some quality time seeking the Lord and talking with godly leaders before you make any decision – they could save you a lifetime of misery; and help you find God’s choice.
Remember these three principles...
1. Be obedient to God and choose a believer.
2. Trust God to lead you to the right person.
3. Look out for good and godly characteristics.
2 Corinthians 6:14 ‘Do not be yoked together with unbelievers, for what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?’
A husband and wife team should complement each other. Do you have similar interests when it comes to spiritual matters? Do you pray and read the Bible together? Do you have common interests and values? Can you work and relax together? Do you help meet each other's emotional needs? Can you work problems through together? When you fight: can you sort it out, forgive and move on? Do you agree on the foundational doctrines?
Do either of you have unresolved relationships in your past? Have you talked about each area of your future life? Do you want children? What are your callings? If one of you wants to be a missionary and the other does not, then you are not compatible. Will there be cultural differences? Western and Eastern culture are very different, with different responsibilities.
Characteristics to look for in a future husband / wife
1. Are they devoted to Christ? Are they right with God and do they walk close with Him? 2 Corinthians 5:15. Will they draw you nearer to or away from the Lord’s will for your life? Isaiah 5:20, 2 Corinthians 13:5. Do you want to spend the rest of your life with someone who may one day hate your love for God? 2 Corinthians 6:14.
2. Look for the correct priorities. Do they want to fulfil the plan that God has for you both, or are they committed to money, position in society and pleasure? Will they put their work life before you and maybe one day the kids? Proverbs 23:4, Matthew 6:33.
3. Do they walk in the love of God? We all have our bad days – but do they treat you with respect? Can you see the peace of God flowing from them? 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a. Are they vindictive towards other people – one day they may be that way towards you, Proverbs 27:5-6. Do they totally lose their temper? Ephesians 4:26-27. Do you feel safe with him / her? Proverbs warns us not to get involved with someone who is constantly irritable and contentious Proverbs 21:9, 19. Do they moan all of the time? Do you see the fruit of the Spirit in them now? Galatians 5:22-23.
4. Are they an honest person? Can you trust him / her? Are they a person of their word? Imagine spending the rest of your life with someone whom you cannot trust; they promise – but rarely fulfil. They lie to get out of difficult situations Numbers 30:2, Psalm 15:1-4b and Proverbs 24:1. Do you think you would be happy with that person?
5. Are they responsible? Do you want to spend your life working hard, when your husband / wife is a selfish, lazy person who ignores their responsibilities? Proverbs 14:23, Proverbs 21:25, Proverbs 22:13, Proverbs 26:13 and 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15.
6. Do they exercise self control? Luke 9:23. Does he or she binge drink? Ephesians 5:18. Are they addicted to drugs, alcohol, sex, work etc? If they have not valued sexual purity before marriage – will they remain pure throughout the whole marriage – even during the long difficult times? Proverbs 5:15-20 and 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
7. What is their attitude towards money? Will they waste the grocery money on expensive brand name shoes, because they are an impulsive shopper? Luke 9:23. Could they send you spiralling into debt by buying a big car or expensive dress without consulting you? Do they gamble? Will they bring a big debt into the marriage? Proverbs 22:7 and Luke 14:28-30. Do they tithe and give offerings to God? Could they put their ‘wants’ above your future families needs? 1 Timothy 5:8.
8. Are they committed to fellowship in church? Are they humble and willing to serve others? 1 Peter 5:5-6. You really don’t want to find out that they are a backslider after six months of marriage! Hebrews 10:25.
9. Do they honour their / your parents? We all know the joke about the mother-in-law; but the Scripture does promise that all will go well with us if we honour our parents Ephesians 6:2-3.
10. Do you love them for their inner beauty? Physical attraction is important, but age does catch up with us all! The Lord looks at the heart and we need wisdom to see past their outward appearance to the heart 1 Samuel 16:7, 1 Peter 3:2-4.
Proverbs 31:30 ‘Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.’
11. Has love blinded you? Sometimes everyone else can see that the person you are with is unsuitable – but our feelings can completely blind us! If your friends, family, pastor and church all tell you not to get married – you will need to consider their advice carefully! Seek God very urgently! Proverbs 11:14 and 20:18a.
On the other hand, many leaders told John Wesley not to marry a great Christian girl because it was not good for the Methodist movement. See Job 12:12, Job 32:9. He was so heart-broken that later he married without consulting anyone – unfortunately for him – he married a bad apple. People testified to seeing his wife pull him around by the hair!!
12. Beware of unrealistic expectations! The list above is good: but remember there is no perfect prince charming or princess out there! We are all real people, with real problems and faults. Are you ready to deal with their and your problems? Proverbs 19:11, John 12:24, Romans 12:9-12, Galatians 2:20, 2 Timothy 2:24-26.
Some think that marriage will solve all of their problems, whilst others marry for all the wrong reasons: such as being caught up in the excitement of a proposal, fear of being left on the shelf, an excuse to escape a bad family atmosphere or to give up work forever under the pretence of starting a family. Others look to marriage as a way to step up the social, economical or political ladder, or for the security in knowing of a future inheritance.
Remember it is better to be single and lonely, than to be married, wishing you were single! One woman who married poorly said, "I never really knew what it was to be alone, until I got married."
Fact: Christian marriage is a lifetime commitment through all of life’s ups and downs.
Do you understand what the responsibilities of a husband and wife are? Study 1 Corinthians 7:1-11, Ephesians 5:22-33, 1 Peter 3:1-7, Proverbs chapter 31.
If you take care of the things that are dear to God, then He will take care of the things that are dear to you Matthew 6:33, Psalm 37:4, 23, 145:19. Being single is an important time to prepare you for marriage. It can also be a time to experience a closer relationship with Him. Sometimes people do not marry for a variety of reasons and there is nothing wrong in remaining single. God’s will be done.
Think: What do you expect to get from marriage and what are you prepared to give? Are you ready for a lifetime commitment?
More Info: Genesis 2:18-25, Ruth, Ecclesiastes 9:9, Song of Songs, Matthew 12:25, Galatians 5:15, Ephesians 6:4, 1 Timothy 3:4. Malachi 2:13-16.
49. All about DIVORCE
Question and answer: “Divorce is everywhere, but what does the Bible say about it?” The Bible says that God hates divorce.
Jesus said that divorce is permitted if a spouse has been sexually immoral. Matthew 19:3-12, Mark 10:1-12. Divorce is messy and painful - everybody loses, especially the children.
Malachi 2:16 ‘For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce, for it covers one’s garments with violence…’
Divorce is ‘normal’ in some societies, but it should not be normal for Christians. Most of us will know people who have gone through a divorce and we know some of the pain and anguish they have endured.
Wisdom: Never rush into marriage, pray long and hard and make sure that you are compatible, suitable and both spiritual. Do you have the same calling? The best way to protect yourself from experiencing a divorce in the future is to let God choose your future spouse.
Divorce can cause much pain, rejection, a feeling of betrayal, bitterness, anger, financial and emotional stress and a deep sense of grief. You need to forgive those who have hurt you and allow God to heal your broken heart. We need to love and to help those who have been through divorce, especially the children who often are caught in the middle of the parent’s tug-of-war. God can give you all the emotional support etc that you need.
Fact: It is better to work a problem through than to run from it. ‘With God all things are possible’ Matthew 19:26. Jesus can and does heal marriages. He also can heal the children who have been hurt by their parents’ divorce.
A lady who had been married for fifty years was asked the secret of her successful marriage. She replied, “I decided to make a mental note of his ten worst habits or annoyances, and then just ignore them one by one”. And what were those ten habits or annoyances?” asked the intrigued lady. “I’m not sure” replied the happily married lady “I stopped counting at nine”. You cannot change the person whom you marry, but you can love and accept them Ephesians 4:32, 5:21-33, 1 Peter 4:8, Ecclesiastes 7:22-23.
Think: When I step into marriage will it be ‘Till death do us part?’
More Info: Genesis 2:18, 24, Deuteronomy 22:19, Malachi 2:13-16, Matthew (5:23-24, 18:15-17), 19:3-12, Romans 7:1-3, 12:17-19, 1 Corinthians 7:10-16, 1 Peter 3:7.
50. Be BALANCED in KNOWLEDGE and UNDERSTANDING
Question and answer: “How can I lead a life of balance in regards to Bible knowledge?
We should not build our faith or Biblical knowledge on one truth only to neglect other truths, which are equally important. You can over-emphasise or give more prominence to some issues or doctrines, e.g. Israel, Calvinism, Revelations etc and under-emphasise on others.
Jesus should be our first love and our central theme. It is a good idea to read the Bible through every year, as you may forget other truths. Ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten you. The Holy Spirit will only bring to remembrance that which you have read! Isaiah 28:9-10, Hosea 4:6, 6:3, 1 Corinthians 3:2, Hebrews 5:12, 6:1-2.
John 7:16 Jesus said “My doctrine is not Mine but He who sent Me”
John 14:26 “The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to remembrance all things that I said to you”
You cannot build a doctrine on certain selective Scriptures, Romans 15:4, 16:17. You have to take all of them and apply them within their context. You cannot twist or manipulate Scripture to make them fit a doctrine, Matthew 26:23-29, John 5:39. Any half-truth cannot make the whole truth. Beware of half-truths as you may get the wrong half! We can have understanding in some areas but not in others, Isa. 28:9-10, Acts 4:13, 18:24-28, 19:1-11.
Wisdom: We need to get as close to God as possible. Are you a part of the 120, the 70, the 12 or the three disciples? Matthew 17:1, or we can be close to Jesus' heart, John 21:20. The closer we get to Jesus, who is the Truth, John 14:6, then the more balanced we will be in our teaching.
Fact: People can be controversial, often just to justify their imbalance.
We need to be careful from whom we get our teaching - they may be in error, Luke 6:39-40. We should judge all things with Scripture, Acts 17:10-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
Teachers need to be godly and not self-promoting, 2 Corinthians 10:18. Teachers should proclaim and teach ‘the whole council of God’, Acts 20:18-28. We should not focus on our differences in doctrine (but we should expose heresy), but on what we have in common; don’t major on the minors,1 Timothy 1:3-4, Titus 3:9, Hebrews 13:9. Edify one another, Hebrews 12:14.
Think: Am I too focused on one doctrine, or do I desire to know the whole truth? Psalm 111:2.
More Info: Matthew 15:15, Luke 24:27, John 7:14-18, Acts 2:42, 1 Corinthians 13:12, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Ephesians 4:11-16, 1 Timothy 6:3-4, 2 Timothy 2:15, 3:10,16, Titus
51. DOCTRINE and HERESY
Question and answer: “How do I know if something is heresy?”
If a person or an organisation teaches contrary to the doctrines as found in the Bible, then this is heresy and false teaching! These teachers may be ignorant of biblical truths, Acts 8:8-24, 18:24-26. Some deliberately distort, Galatians 1:6-7, 3:1, 2 Peter 3:16-17, take away, or add to biblical truth, Deuteronomy 4:2, Galatians 1:8-9, Revelation 22:18-19. These teachers appeal for financial gain, (2 Corinthians 12:17-18), 1 Timothy 6:3-10, Jude 11. Some are under demonic influences and seek its desires, 1 Timothy 4:1, James 3:14-15, Jude 16-19.
1 John 2:22 ‘Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son’
2 Peter 2:1 ‘…there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction’
The Bible is the inspired Word of God. It is totally trustworthy and is our supreme authority in all matters of faith, conduct and doctrine, Romans 15:4, 2 Timothy 3:15-17, Hebrews 4:12, 2 Peter 1:19-21. ‘Test all things…’ 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
There are many cults in the world. They often call themselves ‘Christian’ to be accepted by society.
A ‘Christian’ cult is a group of people who have changed very important biblical doctrines and who deny such truths as: the Trinity, the deity of the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ. They often preach salvation by works, instead of by God’s grace, Romans 5:15-19, Galatians 5:4-10, Ephesians 2:8-9. Some say that the grace of God gives you liberty to sin, Jude 4. Some have 'new holy books or gospels' Deuteronomy 4:2, Galatians 1:8-9, Revelation 22:18-19. All cults teach much error that is contrary to biblical truth.
Wisdom: Believers should have a good working knowledge of the Bible, Acts 17:11, 2 Timothy 3:14-16. If something is taught as ‘truth’ then it must line up with what Scripture says, Acts 17:2, 18:28. God does not speak or reveal anything that is contrary to His word, 1 Corinthians 15:2-4. Fellow believers who teach truth are known ‘by their fruits’ Matthew 7:15-23.
Some of the major cults are the Jehovah’s Witnesses, the Mormons, Christian Science and the Christadelphians.
We are called to love and witness to all people, including members of the cults and other religions. Don’t argue with them; politely ask them to give you their testimony. They won’t have one because the cults have never met the living God. Speak in love and sow doubt into their mind.
Never accept their accursed pamphlets, their society’s ‘bible’ (with its false translations) or any other so-called ‘divine or holy books’.
Evangelical Christians are united by their belief in the central teachings of the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, and Ephesians 4:4-6. We should all believe the entire Bible and try to understand the whole counsel of God by revelation of the Holy Spirit, who came to guide us into all truth, John 16:13.
Fact: Man is universally sinful; He is guilty of sin and subject to God’s wrath and condemnation, Romans 3:19, 6:23. Jesus the incarnate Son of God gave His life as a substitute for sinful man, John 3:16, 1 Timothy 2:5-6. Jesus can redeem anyone from the power of sin and its consequences. Man can be justified solely by the grace of God, through repentance and faith in Christ’s death and resurrection from the dead, Romans 3:21-26, Ephesians 2:8-9.
Jesus is God: He received and accepted worship, Matthew 2:2, Luke 22:70-71, John 20:28. He forgave sins, Matthew 9:2. He existed from the beginning, Micah 5:2, John 1:1-2, 14. He is sinless, John 8:46, Hebrews 4:15. He is the Creator, John 1:3, 5:17-19, 7:28-29, 9:33-38, 10:30,33, 17:5,11, Col. 1:16. Jesus is One with the Father, John 17:21.
The Holy Spirit is God: A building cannot be grieved, as it has no feeling, but we can grieve the Holy Spirit, Ephesians 4:30, as He is a person, John 14:16, 16:8, 12-14, Romans 8:26. He has a will, Acts 16:6-7 and a mind, John 3:8, Romans 8:27. He is the Creator, Genesis 1:2 and Eternal, Hebrews 9:14. He is called God, 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, 2 Corinthians 3:17, Acts 5:3-4. He gives life, John 6:63. He convicts of sin, John 16:8. He intercedes for us, Romans 8:26-27.
The Trinity: “Let us make man in our image” Genesis 1:26. Jesus’ Baptism, the Father’s voice, the Spirit’s infilling Matthew 3:16-17. Baptise believers in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19. Unity of the Godhead, John 15:26. The Apostolic blessings, 2 Corinthians 13:14, Revelation 1:4-5.
Doctrine is very important and it must be kept pure, John 7:16-18, Acts 2:42, Ephesians 4:14, 1 Timothy 4:13-16. Everything must be judged by Scripture. The body of Christ needs to be protected from false teachers. Matthew 7:15-23, Acts 20:29-31, (1 Timothy 1:19-20, 2 Timothy 2:17-18), 2 Peter 2:1-3, 10-22. Excommunication from a church is always the final option, Hosea 9:15, Rev 1:20-2:1-5, and chapters 2 and 3. A little leaven will spread, Matthew 16:5-12, 18:15-17, 1 Corinthians 5:5-7.
Think: Do I know how to witness to cult members if the need arises?
More Info: Isaiah 48:16, Zechariah 2:9,11, Matthew 24:23-26, John 7:16-17, 15:26, Acts 2:42, Romans 16:17, 1 Timothy 4:1, 6:3-4, 2 Timothy 4:3-4, Titus 1:9-16, 2:1, Hebrews 3:7-11, 6:1-2, 2 Peter 2 (all), 3:1-3, 1 John 2:22-24, 4:6-8, 2 John 9-10.